What a better time to consider the various meals described in the Bible than during Thanksgiving? Indeed, there is much to be learned from the biblical narratives and parables centered around meals. To keep this short (it being a short week), we will take a quick look at the ones which come quickly to mind.
The Feast of Psalm 23 – “The LORD is my shepherd… He prepares a table before me in the face of my enemies (vv. 1,5).” This is not “sweet-by-and-by” talk. He is shepherd now. The Kingdom is here. We are seated with Him, in Christ (Ephesians 2:6).
The Last Supper (John 13) – Authority is “for”, not “over” (v. 15-17). “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (v. 35).” Thanksgiving meals are great times to practice this love.
The Prodigal’s Return (Luke 15:11-32) – God celebrates the dead who find life and the lost who are found (v. 24). Perhaps that describes someone you will encounter this holiday season. Sadly, some will have issue with His merciful kindness (v. 28); let us not be that one.
The Great Supper (Luke 14:16-24) – Many refuse the King’s invitation, simply because they are too busy with the activities of this world (v. 18-20). Sadly, they were not aware “that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper (v. 24).” Ouch!
Those Poor, Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) – You cannot borrow your neighbor’s oil (v. 9). Best to come prepared, “… for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming (v. 13).”
Which of these is your favorite? In which do you find yourself? Do others come to mind (e.g., Jesus dining with sinners, or with that wee little man, Zacheus)? It is certainly no coincidence that meals have forever been – and will forever be – important to God and His kingdom people.
Lastly, here is my favorite meal, the one I most look forward to:
The Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6-9) – “… His wife has made herself ready (v. 7).” “Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb (v. 9)!” The wife will not be dismembered, so let us not be at odds with the rest of Christ’s body. The love of God – sacrificial love – is our common ground. The power of that love towards one another will stagger even the most stubborn of God’s lost and wandering children.
So, as you prepare to gather around the dinner table, take some time alone or with others to consider the One Who waits for His wife to make herself ready, that He may come to take her home, forever and ever. Amen.
God bless you with joy and peace in fellowship this Thanksgiving.
Humbly yours and forever His,
Rob
#iamjustthepen