24. Mephibosheth, the grandson of Saul, also came to meet David. He had missed David so much that he had not taken a bath or trimmed his beard or washed his clothes the whole time David was gone.
25. After they had gone back to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth came to see David, who asked him, “Why didn't you go with me?”
26. He answered, “Your Majesty, you know I can't walk. I told my servant to saddle a donkey for me so I could go with you. But my servant left without me, and
27. then he lied about me. You're as wise as an angel of God, so do what you think is right.
28. After all, you could have killed my whole family and me. But instead, you let me eat at your own table. Your Majesty, what more could I ask?”
29. David answered, “You've said enough! I've decided to divide the property between you and Ziba.”
30. Mephibosheth replied, “He can have it all! I'm just glad you've come home safely.”
31. Barzillai came from Rogelim in Gilead to meet David at the River Jordan and go across with him.
32. Barzillai was eighty years old. He was very rich and had sent food to David in Mahanaim.
33. David said to him, “Cross the river and go to Jerusalem with me. I will take care of you.”
34. Barzillai answered:Your Majesty, why should I go to Jerusalem? I don't have much longer to live.
35. I'm already eighty years old, and my body is almost numb. I can't taste my food or hear the sound of singing, and I would be nothing but a burden.
36. I'll cross the river with you, but I'll only go a little way on the other side. You don't have to be so kind to me.
37. Just let me return to my home town, where I can some day be buried near my father and mother. My servant Chimham can go with you, and you can treat him as your own.
38. David said, “I'll take Chimham with me, and whatever you ask me to do for him, I'll do. And if there's anything else you want, I'll also do that.”
39. David's soldiers went on across the river, while he stayed behind to say goodbye to Barzillai and to wish him well. Barzillai returned home, but
40. Chimham crossed the river with David.All of Judah's army and half of Israel's army were there to help David cross the river.