A Table With A View

Psalm 23:5 (NIV)
You prepare a table before me, in the presence of my enemies. 

Low-level lighting, soft ambient music, great food, and even better company— that is my criterion for a dinner party.

That said, I've always enjoyed this image of a table in the presence of my enemies.

It encourages me.

While my enemies are not usually at the top of my guest list, a table in their presence paints a picture of a banquet in a battle. It reminds me that God doesn’t have to wait until peacetime to hang out; rather, he meets me in the middle of whatever I’m going through.

Wherever you are today, peacetime, or battle, God wants to meet you in it!

But… it also challenges me.

I used to think this table was about revenge… I enjoy the idea of those who wish me harm having to watch me feast (cue evil laugh sound effect).

But what if the enemy's presence is less about revenge and more about redemption?

God has been reminding me recently that his heart is for all people to come to repentance, even my enemies, and it's his kindness that will lead them to it. He’s been reminding me that because of my sin, I don’t deserve to dine at his table. Like everything God gives, this meal is sheer mercy, every course served is a demonstration of his kindness.

What if that is why he wants my enemies to see it? What if they are present so they can see his kindness at work, that they might come to repentance? And in repentance, they would be transformed from onlooking enemies to part of the family seated at the table.

Food for thought!

Prayer: Holy Spirit, give me your heart for people, especially those who have wronged me.