The Father’s Table
“For God shows no partiality.” Romans 2:11
We have a large wooden table in our kitchen. Nearly forty years ago my husband built it using the wood from a huge white pine tree. Back then, it lived in our dining room, and we only used it when we had company. We didn’t know all those years ago that one day our family would grow so large we could hardly all squeeze around it. Now our grown children and their children crowd around it to share meals, play games and celebrate special moments.
The table is no longer reserved for special occasions or invited guests. Its marred surface, with its small dents and scratches, holds memories of little ones, now grown and loved ones who are no longer with us. Deep within its wooden surface are the secrets shared in the quiet hours, the laughter and tears of a lifetime. It symbolizes our coming together and sharing more than just food. It welcomes us in and invites us to stay.
Our Heavenly Father also has a huge table. It stretches farther than the eye can see or imagine, with room enough for whoever wishes to come. Comfortable chairs line both sides, and they to be filled. It’s a welcoming place – a place of peace and contentment and everything a heart could desire.
We can do nothing to earn a seat at this table. The price has already been paid by Jesus. Everyone is invited to come. The invitation doesn’t come with a long list of requirements. You simply come as you are. The poor, the rich, the broken, the sinner, the powerful ,the humble, the young, the old … no one is excluded. No one gets a more prominent seat. All are equally loved and no one is ever turned away. You are part of the family.
However, as with any invitation we must choose to either accept or reject it. The Father waits with open arms to welcome you into His family.
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name.”
John 1:12
His love is so great!
What a powerful message, Linda. It is so wonderful to know that He rejects no one; sadly many reject His love for them.
I love the imagery of God’s table as a welcoming place. Beautiful message.