“The son of Jonathan was Merib-baal, and Merib-baal was the father of Micah.” (1 Chronicles 8:34 ESV).
This verse appears in a genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin, tracing the descendants of King Saul through his son Jonathan. The name Merib-baal here refers to the same person known elsewhere in Scripture as Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 4:4; 9:6). Though the names differ, both identify Jonathan’s crippled son and the father of Micah. The difference in names is likely due to the growing unease in Israel with the use of “Baal”—a Canaanite god’s name—in personal names. Later writers often replaced it with “bosheth,” meaning “shame.” Thus, “Merib-baal” (“Baal contends”) became “Mephibosheth” (“exterminator of shame”). The mention of his line continuing through his son Micah is a reminder that the covenant David made with Jonathan endured. Despite the fall of Saul’s dynasty, David faithfully preserved Jonathan’s family and gave Mephibosheth a permanent place at his royal table (2 Samuel 9:7).
We are reminded here that God honors covenant faithfulness. David’s kindness to Mephibosheth is a reflection of God’s steadfast love towards us. Even when Saul had persecuted him, David kept his word to Jonathan. In the same way, we who are spiritually crippled and undeserving have been brought into the King’s presence because of a covenant made through Christ. God has not forgotten us. Just as Merib-baal’s name is preserved in Scripture and his line continued through Micah, we too are part of a lasting spiritual legacy through faith. Let us be people who keep our promises, honor our covenants, and show undeserved kindness to others as children of God.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for Your covenant love that never fails. Thank You for welcoming us into Your family through Jesus. Help us to be faithful, keeping our word, showing kindness, and living out Your steadfast love. May our lives reflect the grace You have given us. In Jesus’ name, amen.