What does the story of Mephibosheth teach us about salvation?

Mephibosheth's story in 2 Samuel 9 symbolizes the grace of God in the redemption of sinners. He was a son of Jonathan, yet viewed by the world as an outcast due to his lameness and his lineage from Saul, an enemy of David. Like Mephibosheth, we are spiritually handicapped and incapable of doing anything to earn God's favor. David's search for any remaining member of Saul's house reflects God's initiative in salvation; He actively seeks out the lost and invites them to His table. When Mephibosheth was called before the king, he was fearful and unsure of what would happen, yet David assured him of kindness and restoration, demonstrating that God’s salvation is based not on our merit but on His covenant faithfulness. This narrative reminds us that salvation is solely God's work, extending grace to those who least deserve it, ultimately pointing to Christ's sacrificial love for His people.