Created for Fellowship

Day after tomorrow, we’ll be celebrating one of my favorite holidays—Thanksgiving.  Not only do I love the history and story behind the first Thanksgiving, but I also love both the food and the fellowship time with family and friends. 

I have enjoyed making every element of the traditional Thanksgiving dinner since I was in my 20’s and enjoy opening my home to others who don’t have that tradition or don’t have family nearby.  I wish I could open my home to all of you!

I recently read an article from Dallas Theological Seminary about hospitality.
It said, “Sharing tables is one of the most uniquely human things we do.  No other creature consumes its food at a table.  And sharing tables with other people reminds us that there’s more to food than fuel.  We don’t eat only for sustenance.” 

God created us for fellowship!  A key element of every thanksgiving is that we gather together around the table to thank God for his many blessings.  I wish we could ALL gather together around one HUGE table, but I will look forward to that in eternity!

As I prepare for this year’s celebration, I realize that this recent election is certain to be one of the topics of discussion.  While I’m sure you join me in rejoicing that God granted us grace and a unique opportunity to ‘right the ship’ of America, I know there are some who might be at our tables who do not share our optimism.  If you’ve scrolled through social media, you’ll have seen that there are many who are fearful about what the future might hold. 

We need to remember that God loves all of us, even those who do not know Him and are fearful.  As we transfer power to a new administration, we (each of us) need to share God’s love and work toward unity, as much as we are able.  We are in a spiritual battle for America and maybe God has ordained this to be a time when He will remove the scales from their eyes that they might see HIS glory?!

As we gather with those who may not hold the same religious beliefs—let alone political beliefs—how would God have us approach these opportunities?  How can we talk about politics and still keep Jesus at the forefront?   We should use Jesus (and scripture) as our example!

One lesson is about with whom we eat and share our lives.  Our God, though supreme and all-powerful, gave up His lofty position to become fully human . . . and not just human, but one whose followers were a crew of misfits and sinners.  Jesus called as his inner circle those the Pharisees called “sinners” . . . as are we all!

No one is too lowly for us to share the love of Jesus:  tax collectors, fishermen, blue collar workers, white-collar workers, the rich and famous, children, the hungry and destitute.  God’s love is for all of us, and we will all fellowship in heaven.  How much more should we fellowship here on earth!

Another lesson can be found in what God does through the fellowship of the breaking of bread.  As Jesus is walking on the road to Emmaus, they are joined by others who did not recognize Him.  Luke 24:30-31 tells us, “When he was the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.  Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him . . .”  Throughout the Word, God shows His provision through food and drink: manna from heaven, Ruth’s overflowing baskets of wheat, never-ending wine for wedding guests, and a glimpse at the feast to come.  I pray that you share in God’s provision around your Thanksgiving table.

Finally, we can learn our role in bringing others to Christ.  Jesus served.  He washed the feet of the disciples.  Though exhausted from ministry, he cared for the physical needs of the multitude.  Although Jesus certainly preached, He just as often served and loved and provided for those in need.  After the resurrection, Jesus awaits the disciples on the banks of the Sea of Galilee.  Peter, who had early denied Him, jumps fully clothed into the sea to get to Jesus.  Jesus’ words were not of rebuke but of restoration, “Come and have breakfast.” (John 21:12)

How many at your table on Thursday will need words of refreshment and restoration?  How many do not share your views on politics or religion?  How many are feeling broken or hurting and in need of something greater than any meal or political regime can provide?

I see the next few days and months as a unique opportunity, not just from a political standpoint (though surely it is!), but also from the perspective of our individual and collective ministries.  We’ll no doubt be in contact with those who disagree with us, but is there a deeper, more important need than arguing over political views and election outcomes?  The resounding answer is “yes.”  People are carrying burdens and hurt that they alone can’t handle.  What an opportunity we have to invite them to our table and to show them that there is a place to find rest for their souls.

May you find rest in Jesus and may he use you as a healing balm to those around you who are hurting.  May we all find unity and purpose in Christ.  That is something for which I am eternally Thankful!