A Place at the Table

by Dorothy Teague

Being called to supper is a favorite memory of mine. As a child, I would be outside playing or doing my chores, and my mom or dad would come out on the porch and call my name. I knew there would be something tasty on the table, so I didn’t waste any time heeding the call. No matter how busy life was, we gathered around the table for supper. My mother and father not only worked factory jobs but worked on the farm as well. So, it was a time

to catch up with each other and the news each of us had to share. Though my father had strict rules about what topics were discussed, it was a wonderful family time. When we came to the table, we all had our places where we always sat. It never varied unless we had guests.

I’ve always enjoyed reading Psalm 23 and memorized it in my childhood. But now, I see so much more in that short passage. Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” As Christians, His Holy Spirit indwells us, allowing us the privilege to be in His presence and to pray to Him anytime we choose. His care and provision for us are so abundant that it’s like a banquet set before us. (NKJV)

There are many references to wedding feasts throughout the Bible. John 2:1-12 is the wedding in Cana where Jesus performed His first miracle of turning water into wine, saving the best for the last. Revelation 19:79 recounts John’s vision of the marriage supper of the Lamb, where all the redeemed, whose names are written in the Book of Life, are called to the table to enjoy the feast. Matthew 22 is the Parable of the Marriage Feast, where the Kingdom of Heaven is compared to a marriage feast set up by a king for his son. The king sent out his servants to invite people, but they were unwilling to come, so he sent his servants again to tell them the feast was prepared. Again, they refused, so he sent his servants into the highways to invite as many who would come. There was one man, however, who did not have on a wedding garment and he was thrown out into outer darkness. (v.13) Because of Christ coming, dying on the cross, and rising again from the grave, we can enjoy His provision here and now, as well as enjoy His presence through the Holy Spirit, in prayer and praise. We will one day be called to supper by our Father and sit at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb at our very own place that’s been saved just for us. The name card has already been placed on the table for the Bride of Christ, the ones who have accepted Him as Lord and Savior. We will laugh and talk as a great big family around the table of God! Don’t let time go by and cast aside your invitation! Prepare today for your place at the table!

About The Author

Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.