THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
He welcomed his son, who was crippled and frail, into his home, placed him at his table, and showered him with the highest honor. He felt no shame in doing so, nor did he hide it away, nor did he believe that the king's table was sullied by the boy's affliction; instead, he proudly displayed this act of kindness. Indeed, anyone who dined with him came away with a profound lesson in generosity. Witnessing the son of Saul, who had caused David so much distress, being so esteemed by him, everyone—even those who were as fierce as beasts—began to feel a sense of shame and to blush, reconciling with their adversaries.
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It would have been commendable had David merely given the son of Saul a separate table and a regular allowance; however, inviting him to partake at his own table exemplified the pinnacle of kindness. Surely it is well known how difficult it is to extend love toward the children of one’s enemies. And I do not merely mean to love—consider how hard it is to avoid hatred or to decline persecution. Many, upon an enemy's death, transfer their animosity onto that enemy's offspring. But not so with the magnanimous David; rather, he spared his adversary during his lifetime and, upon his death, bestowed favor upon his family.
What can be more sacred than David’s feast, where he entertained the children of someone who had intended to harm him? What could be more elevated than the gathering where such abundant blessings flowed? It was truly an angel and not merely a man who called others to that banquet. Indeed, there shone forth in him a face illuminated by love and grace towards the children of one who had sought his life countless times and retained such affection until the end. Therefore, beloved, extend kindness to the children of your foes both in life and beyond. During your life, do so to reconcile with their parents; and after your passing, you will earn great favor from God, receive innumerable crowns, and also merit continual goodwill from all—all not just from those who have assisted you, but also from those who have witnessed your actions. This will safeguard you on the day of judgment; the enemies you have ennobled will stand as powerful advocates for you in that moment; you will atone for many transgressions and be rewarded abundantly. Even if you have sinned countless times, by uttering the prayer that says, “Forgive your enemies, and your Father will forgive you your trespasses,” you shall receive the assurance of forgiveness for all your sins, living here in hopeful expectation and enjoying the goodwill of all.
Indeed, those who observe your love for your enemies and their children in this manner will desire to become your friends, willing to do anything for you and support you fully. When you are so favored by God, everyone will prayerfully wish for your well-being; what trials can you then face, and who will not rejoice alongside you in their lives? Let us not only marvel at this while we are here, but when we depart, we should strive to embody this lesson: let us go forth and recognize our enemies, reconciling with them and turning them into true friends. If we find it necessary to seek their forgiveness, we must not hesitate, even if we ourselves have been wronged. In doing so, we will prepare for ourselves a profound reward and a steadfast hope; through this path, we shall assuredly enter the kingdom of heaven by the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be glory, power, and honor forever and ever, Amen.