Come to the Table

Posted on March 7, 2019 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

“So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem, for he ate continually at the king’s table. And he was lame in both his feet.” — 2^nd Samuel 9:13

One of my best memories growing up was sitting at the dinner table with my family. The funny part is at the time it didn’t always be the place I wanted to be. I never understood or appreciated the benefit of a meal provided and served. Now, thinking back, I miss those times.

The table was a place where we could interact with one another, it was a time of listening and speaking. I learned a lot about my family there and it still remains a social place to sit with someone you’d like to get to know.

The invitation to sit at someone’s table is exclusive, it can be intimate and social. It’s usually the first step in dating, business deals, and introductions. “Hey, come out to eat with us, we’d like to get to know you” is often a first introduction, “Let’s break bread.”

When I read an account in the Bible I have been drawn closely to the times when I can relate to a story, there is almost a metaphoric connection to what’s happening and what I need. God has a way of speaking to me in the way He uses His word to communicate with me. He’s the Vine, I’m the branches, He’s the light of the world and I’m a lamp…Parables, symbolic stories that get our attention.

The account of Mephibosheth is one of those I can relate to, a man living in Lo Dar, injured from the fall, bitter with life and no future on the horizon. Living in a fruitless environment waiting to die. Even when someone told me that God loves me and wants to be my Lord and Savior I was skeptical. I only saw judgement and death, the only reason God would invite me to sit at His table was for condemnation. I was wrong, and the symbolic gesture of Mephibosheth being carried because of his injury and with nothing to bring to the table began to speak to my heart, I was invited to the “King’s Table”, “Come to the Table” was summoned and when I responded, I was shown compassion and suddenly my infirmities no longer hindered me.

There are times when I approach “The Table” I hear the enemy tell me I don’t belong there and I am reminded of my past and realize I’m not qualified. But then that gentle whisper reminds me of His love and I’m drawn in by His mercy and grace. I love to sit at “The Table” and I’m looking forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb.

So, “Come to the Table”, your invitation is given, a seat is there for you. Come just as you are, just don’t stay that way. Amen!

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri and serves with her on full-time staff. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.

The Daily Bible Reading: Job 3-4, 1 Corinthians 2| You can download our 2018 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

Daily Quote: “We come to the table not because we are holy, but because we are in need of His holiness. We come to the table not because we are strong, but because we are weak and in need of His strength.” – Johnathan Martin

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.” – Psalm 27:8