Ron Aulbach

Growing up, there was a commercial that featured a well known multi sport athlete who had a reputation as a know it all. “Bo knows” how to play football, excel at baseball, drive a golf ball, cycle in the Tour de France, drive an Indy car, and even play cricket. Is there anything this man can’t do? He never really did all those things, but that wasn’t the point. The tag was “Bo knows nice shoes… just do it!” Unfortunately for Bo Jackson, a rare degenerative bone disease cut his career short. I guess even Bo has limits

There is another person that inspires me, and he is mentioned in the Bible. He wasn’t a know it all, but he was entitled to it all and blessed despite his circumstances. When we meet Mephibosheth, or let’s just call him Bo, he finds him in a tough situation. He is the grandson of Saul, who has just been overthrown by David as the new king. Bo is a living threat, and rightful heir to the throne David occupies. Bo might not know a lot about sports, but he knows a lot about ruling with power and authority. He could rally the troops and make a run at David. But, this Bo seems to know his limits. His feet had been crippled since he was a child when his nanny fell on him. He still poses a threat, and David would be well served to eliminate his enemy. But David doesn’t kill him. Instead, he invites him to his palace where he offers him a seat at the table. David had made a promise to Bo’s father, Jonathan, to protect his family. So, every night Bo is invited to eat at the kings table. Imagine that, Bo has to limp down the hall, pull himself up to the table, and hide his crippled feet beneath the table. It doesn’t matter what he knows, he dines with the king. He is a man among men. I wonder how Bo feels? Does he realize how blessed he is? Could you imagine if Bo decided to be critical of the meal, or complain to the servants, or send his plate back demanding the chef make something else? Not a chance. Bo knows he sits at a table he doesn’t deserve to be at. The offer of the king is out of grace and mercy. Bo should have one, and only one thought. Grateful.

We have the opportunity to sit at the Kings table as well. To limp to the table and feast on what we did not prepare. Where it doesn’t matter what we know, but who we know. We can have one thought and one thought only. Grateful. Grateful for the gift of eternal life that God offers through his son Jesus. Grateful for His love and grace that led him to the cross. Give thanks, not just on a day, but every day.

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18.