You're Invited to the Table

Have you ever experienced a time of being the odd man out? Going to a new school, a new job or church or eating lunch by yourself? The feeling of walking into a cafeteria or social event and having no idea where you will sit or if the person you choose to sit by would prefer you weren't there. Isn't it the greatest relief to see a familiar face or just hear someone say, "Hey! Come sit here!"

Last week in Sunday School we learned about Mephibosheth. He was the crippled son of King David's friend, Jonathan. But he was the grandson of King David's arch enemy, Saul. We are told in Scripture that he was lame in both feet. He had been accidentally dropped as his family was fleeing a dangerous situation. He would later live isolated and alone, by his own choice. The part of the story we picked up in was the part when David asked, "“Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” 2 Samuel 9:1

David desired to show kindness to Mephibosheth, not because of anything he did, but because of his love for Jonathan. My favorite part of the story is when we read, "So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem, for he ate continually at the king’s table." 2 Samuel 9:13.

All week I have remained in awe of what this story represents. First, I had the opportunity to meet some of the foster families I will be working with and see real life versions of people who have invited weak, vulnerable strangers to join them at their table. It's beautiful and breathtaking and life giving. More importantly, as we approach Easter Sunday my heart swells, overwhelmed that, not because of anything I've done, but solely based on my relationship with Jesus, I've been invited to sit at the King's table. 

It never gets old. It never stops rocking my world. The idea that the King looked down, He saw me broken, lame, crippled. With sin and heartache. And He showed me kindness for Jesus' sake. He invited me to the table.

Wherever you are tonight, whatever your struggle, no matter how broken-you're invited, too.

"And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you."

Romans 8:10-11