Come to the Table

Photo by Kenda Beck

Written by Tina Kramer

Christmas 1995

The house is empty, and I am alone on Christmas Day. I thought it wouldn’t bother me, but it does. Loneliness hangs over me like a dreary cloud, and I wonder what to do. Suddenly, a person comes to mind- Calvin. I need to visit Calvin. Calvin is an elderly man who lives in a retirement community. Calvin is very old and surely would be lonely, too.

Driving to his cottage, I wonder how Calvin will respond to this impromptu visit. I knock on his door, and as he opens it, his face glows with joy as I wish him a Merry Christmas. He immediately asks me if I am hungry and starts to quickly shuffle around his cottage for a can of soup. With slow but deliberate movements, he stirs the soup for our Christmas feast. Tears well up in my eyes because of his kindness. Both of us needed encouragement-both of us needed a bowl of comfort and the presence of a caring friend.

There is another feast that awaits us. A feast much better than a simple bowl of soup.

“Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb.” (NIV Rev. 19:9)

Jesus, the Lamb of God, is inviting His family to the table. He longs to enjoy sweet fellowship with us. Oh, how I look forward to that day, when I will sit next to my friend Calvin and see him in his new body. No more wrinkles and shuffling feet, he and I will be jumping for joy with our Savior.

Do you know for sure if you’ll be sitting at that heavenly feast?

Prayer

Father God,

How you long to be close to Your children. We are often distracted in this modern world. Racing to and fro in our speedy cars-chasing the next event that will bring us pleasure. How often do we sit quietly and wait to hear from you? Forgive us, God, for pushing you aside and not cherishing Your presence. Help us to come and sit with you today. Help us to be still and listen.

“You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.” (NIV Psalm 23:5-6)

Are you feeling lonely today? Do you want to know more about Jesus and His gift of eternal life? Please watch this video.