Everything on the Table
"But the cheerful heart has a continual feast.”- Proverbs 15:15
One thing I look to avoid at almost all costs is negotiations. Whether I am having a garage sale, purchasing a big-ticket item, or working through a lease agreement/escrow, I dread the process of haggling over prices, terms, and conditions. I am glad I found my calling as a shepherd (pastor) because I would make a terrible salesperson!
Despite my disdain for such ventures there is one phrase of the sale/deal I embrace fully: EVERYTHING IS ON THE TABLE. This saying speaks to the conditions open for discussion in order for both parties to come to an agreement. During this season may this saying become a precious reminder of all that God places before us of His abundant blessing! What God sets on His table of faithfulness is a true feast, far better than the Thanksgiving meal of turkey, sides, and pumpkin pie. God’s table is filled with love, provision, covering and strength. In Song of Songs 2:4 we hear the joy of the bride over her beloved’s love, “Let him lead me to the banquet hall, and let his banner over me be love.”
May we see the great truth of God’s goodness at work in our lives through Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday by the way):
1. As you sit at a table to enjoy a delicious feast, may you be reminded of God’s complete provision. Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.”
2. As you spend the day with family and friends, may you be reminded of God’s loving friendship. Exodus 33:11 says, “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.”
3. As you have a day off from work and/or school, may you be reminded of God’s invitation for rest. In Matthew 11:28 Jesus declares, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
This Thanksgiving there is much to give thanks for because everything is at His table! May we shout out the very same words of the person who was so overwhelmed by the presence and proclamations of Jesus, that he responded in the following manner, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” (Luke 14:15)