The Table…
We’re invited. We’ll be satisfied. We’ll have the perfect seat. We won’t ever want to leave.
Banquets or parties can be awkward – what to wear, where to sit, who to talk to and about what.
The there’s this: I have a hard time just relaxing and letting go when it comes to having people over. I obsess over getting everything clean, everything just so. Once everyone is there I’m good, but the lead-up causes me to often not want to invite people in the first place. And then I remember, Jesus took me just the way I was – lots of cleaning up needing to be done. People don’t come for clean floors, they come for sincere friendship.
“Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13 NIV) God’s people who are in need – that’s all of us, right? In need of walking this life with more and more of Jesus. In need of knowing we aren’t the only ones who mess up. In need of practicing what we believe.
So about that table. Picture it. Full of people you know, whose hearts are transparent and pure. Covered in serving after serving of endless grace and peace. We won’t go away hungry: “Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied.” (Luke 6:21a NIV) This is the table we long to gather around – in just a little while.
For now – if you’re in America – this week you have a chance to gather round a table. Whether it’s at a homeless shelter or in a mansion – maybe in the break room at work cause you took that shift — just gather. Because Who we give thanks to is all that matters. “My mouth is filled with Your praise, declaring Your splendor all day long.” (Psalm 71:8 NIV)
Is your table missing someone this year? Is your table empty? Is your table full of strife? Maybe your table is just the way you want it. There is One who can fill the empty spot, calm the hurts, make it better than the perfect place settings. Invite Him and share so that all may “…know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:19 NIV) No one will want to leave.
parisrenae 
Love this!
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Hoping you are readying for a special gathering round the table in a few days – blessings as you thank the One who provides, gives peace, and loves beyond our imagination 🙂
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Thank you for the reminder that God can fill the empty spot at my tables. Maree
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Maree – my heart hurts for your empty places and so grateful you know the One who fills the voids with His presence. Blessings as you are filled the more you empty yourself to others for Him…
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Great insights and encouragement. Points us to that great day when we will all sit at the banquet table with Jesus. 🙂
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Can hardly wait for that day – may He continually encourage you around your table and as you speak words for Him…
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