Integrity, Kindness, and the Commitments We Keep

In an age where headlines shout about conflict and division, kindness might seem like a weak response.  We may think power means protecting our own interests, but true strength sometimes shows up in unexpected ways—through loyalty, mercy, and compassion.

One such example is King David, a leader remembered for his bravery, poetic soul, failures and heartfelt repentance. But what’s often overlooked is his unwavering commitment to the people he loved, and the promises he made.

Before David became king, he had a deep friendship with Jonathan, son of King Saul. Though Saul viewed David as a threat, Jonathan and David made a covenant to care for one another’s families, no matter what.

After Saul died in battle, the kingdom was divided. While David was accepted as king by the tribe of Judah, Saul’s son Ish-bosheth was made king over the northern tribes. Despite this political rivalry, David did not seek to harm Jonathan’s brother, and when Ish-bosheth was assassinated, David grieved.

David became king over all Israel but never forgot his promise. Instead of eliminating Saul’s descendants as expected, David asked a startling question:
“Is there anyone left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Samuel 9:1)

The answer was Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son. Crippled and living in obscurity, Mephibosheth had every reason to fear David. But remembering his promise, David brought Mephibosheth to the palace and gave him a seat at the royal table, treating him like one of his own sons-- grace in action and a promise kept.

In today’s world, David’s story challenges us. What if kindness wasn’t weakness but strength? What if honoring our commitments and caring for others, even when it’s not required or expected, is how real leadership looks?

We may not sit on thrones, but we all have opportunities to keep the promises that bind us to one another. Sometimes that means being gracious in political or ideological disagreements, honoring the social promise of democracy: a commitment to respectful discourse even when we strongly disagree. It can mean forgiving long-standing family disagreements as a way of honoring the deeper promises of family love and loyalty.  Supporting the United Way, Brookings Food Pantry, Feeding Brookings, the Backpack Project, Jack’s Cupboard, Harvest Table, Salvation Army, or Margo’s Place, or others is a way to live out our social commitment to care for the vulnerable in our communities.

As our world wrestles with division and uncertainty, David’s story offers a needed reminder: there is another way. A better way. One that keeps its promises and extends kindness—even when the world forgets how.
Maybe this is a message we need not only to hear but to live and share.