September 01, 2022
My husband and I still have the same small dining table we’ve had since we were married almost twenty-eight years ago. The table was handed down from my parents who received it as a wedding present when they got married in 1963. The table is now old and worn, but it still serves a purpose and is cherished because of its sentimental value.Many memories have been made around that table. Hands held. Prayers prayed. Meals shared. Holidays celebrated. Games played. Puzzles worked. Letters and Christmas cards addressed. Gifts wrapped.
Tables are important. They’re where we gather—where we live life.
In Bible days, a table is where they broke bread together. Not only was it a place to eat, but it was also a place to gain spiritual nourishment. Jesus sat at a table with His disciples during the Last Supper. Still today, Jesus offers us an invitation to come to the table. Will you accept it? You don’t need to RSVP. You simply show up. The table is set, and He’s there waiting for you.
Most are familiar with Psalm 23 which begins with, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” The NIV version is, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” Think about that for a moment. With the Lord, we lack NOTHING! He provides all we need. He created the air we breathe, the water we drink, our food, and He offers all the love and peace we could ever hope for in life. We just need to meet Him, accepting Jesus into our hearts.
The scripture goes on to say . . .
“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. YOU PREPARE A TABLE BEFORE ME IN THE PRESENCE OF MY ENEMIES; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
- PSALM 23:2-6
The Lord takes us to rest in a lush, green meadow. He leads us to water where we can find refreshment for our souls. Even in dark times of trouble, heartache, anxiety, or depression, He’s with us. With His shepherd’s crook (aka hook), He guides us, protecting us from evil predators, comforting us. Even in the midst of our enemies, He prepares a table especially for us.
Imagine Jesus sitting at THE TABLE with you. He’s more than a close friend. He’s the Almighty Savior who loves you unconditionally and wants to spend time with you. No matter your brokenness, no matter the rejection you feel, no matter the amount of guilt and shame you carry, Jesus invites you to come to the table. You are welcome there, just as you are. No strings attached. Not only does the Lord extend love, comfort, and supernatural peace, but He offers healing and grace. You merely need to accept the invitation. I encourage you to take a seat at the table with Jesus. Live life with Him. Let His mercy draw you near.
(You can listen to The Table series on Spotify - The Well Columbia.)
“Come to the Table” by Sidewalk Prophets
By Kristy Ensor
