God's Open Table

Read Matthew 22:1-10 - the story of the banquet

Look at the birds! They don't worry about what to eat - they don't need to sow or reap or store up food - for your heavenly Father feeds them. Matthew 6:26 (TLB)

John Hall, from North Carolina, loves birds, and he feeds them at multiple locations. They are amazing creations of God, and John enjoys hearing and seeing them. They also remind him of Jesus' love and care as scripture affirms.

John's feeding areas attract many different birds: colorful cardinals, perky wrens, cute chickadees, assertive mockingbirds. All these diverse species eat together, though they don't always get along. John is happy they all enjoy their food side by side.

This reminds John of the parable Jesus shard with the chief priests and elders in Jerusalem shortly before his death and resurrection. His story of the king who prepared a wedding feast for his son and filled the banquet hall with all types of people is an example of how God loves us and delights in our presence, regardless of race, gender, creed, or other differences. In fact, the king sent his servants throughout the town to ensure that all were invited.

Just as all birds are welcome at John's feeders, so all people are welcome at our Lord's table. May we invite everyone to our faith fellowship, regardless of how we may differ. As Paul says, "Christ is all things and in all people." (Col. 3:11, CEB).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your wonderful and diverse creation. Help us to seek and welcome all people to your table of living bread, in Jesus' name. Amen.