Category: Uncategorized

2 In the seventh month, on the twenty-first day of the month, the word of the Lord came by the hand of Haggai the prophet: 2 “Speak now to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and to all the remnant of the people, and say, 3 ‘Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How do you see it now? Is it not as nothing in your eyes? 4 Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the Lord. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the Lord. Work, for I am with you, declares the Lord of hosts, 5 according to the covenant that I made with you when you came out of Egypt. My Spirit remains in your midst. Fear not. 6 For thus says the Lord of hosts: Yet once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land. 7 And I will shake all nations, so that the treasures of all nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts. 8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, declares the Lord of hosts. 9 The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former, says the Lord of hosts. And in this place I will give peace, declares the Lord of hosts.’ ” 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Hag 2:1–9.

Do you recall the excitement of anticipating something significant? Whether it was a Prom, Graduation, Birthday, or Wedding, these events filled you with a sense of anticipation. Our hearts naturally prepare for something ultimately wonderful, and this anticipation is a beautiful feeling. Many carry this same sentiment into the holiday season. Now, imagine if we had a previous event to which we constantly compared everything. If our thoughts were consumed by how that past event appeared or how others presented similar occasions, we would allow this comparison to steal the joy we are meant to experience. Magazines, television, and social media thrive on making us compare our lives and experiences to the most extravagant, glamorous scenarios that are often impossible to replicate. The prophet Haggai delivered a prophetic word to people in a situation very similar to theirs. The elders remembered the true grandeur of Solomon’s temple and its adornments, which was a sight that would have made even the most famous modern-day influencer envious. However, the people of Haggai’s time were not as wealthy, and neighboring countries were not offering their best goods. Consequently, the comparison to the old temple fostered a mindset that needed a reminder: God calls us to anticipate not worldly possessions but God’s Glory.

Haggai was sent a message meant to correct the reliance on comparison inherently that steals the beauty and sincerity of the present moment simply because it isn’t what came before. The message was delivered on the final day of the Feast of Tabernacles, which happened to be the very same festival during which Solomon had dedicated the original temple centuries prior. The parallels naturally led to the painful comparisons for the elders, who, while disappointed by the lack of grandeur, found that their frustration was amplified by their current reality. As they celebrated the harvest festival, they were in the midst of a prolonged period of both drought and scarcity, thus it wasn’t just about how the temple looked, but it was also a comparison against past splendor, leading them to the dangerous error of equating physical magnificence with God’s favor. Haggai’s message, therefore, was a call to abandon the need to return to a previous standard, teaching that when we are too troubled by looking backward, we cannot anticipate the glory God is preparing for us right now.

The call to anticipate God’s present work is the very foundation of hope, a hope that requires the faithful to let go of the past and trust in the Lord’s promises. To empower this shift, God commanded the leaders through Haggai to find strength and ask the people to be empowered by the mandate that was also given to Joshua when preparing to engage and enter the land the Lord had promised, which connects their task of the temple and overcome their current circumstance to a legacy of overcoming challenges. This encouragement was not based on human ability but on the divine assurance given to us through the following: the unwavering promise of His presence, the enduring validity of God’s covenant, and the internal power of the Holy Spirit. Haggai ultimately communicates, both to the original audience and us now, that true strength and hope are not found in wealth or even the comparisons to the past opulence. They are, however, a gift of faith, reminding all of us to keep our eyes fixed on God and allow His Spirit to fill our hearts with anticipation for the glorious future promised.

Looking forward with anticipation is essential because God promises something new, that shakes the heavens and earth which will remove the temporary and establish God’s kingdom, which is unshakeable. Although most of the world looks at precious metals as luxurious and beautiful, Haggai through prophesy redefines glory, because all silver and gold already belong to God, which redefines the new temple’s splendor, as it would not be material but profoundly spiritual. This prophecy was fulfilled as the Second Temple possessed a far superior glory. Within its courts held the personal presence of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who taught within its courts. This living, manifest glory, combined with the purity of its worship and the subsequent proclamation of the gospel, reveals a fulfillment that surpasses all worldly wealth. Ultimately, this new glory brings shalom, which is a complete spiritual peace secured by Jesus and is the very reason we can now approach the Lord’s Table with anticipation, remembering the life He gave to redeem us.

When we allow past experiences to cloud our judgment, we tend to compare present blessings from the Almighty to what once was, lamenting how things “used to be better.” This tendency to compare, much like those whom Haggai addressed, blinds us to the anticipation he calls us to embrace. Hope, fueled by faith, reveals the beauty that becomes possible when we trust in the Almighty God, and as we partake in the offering of Christ we are reminded that, regardless of our present circumstances, whether in abundance or scarcity, the provision of bread and wine signifies something far greater. It underscores that our reliance must come solely from Christ, not from our own contributions. We are called to an anticipation that surpasses the excitement of a child on Christmas morning or a couple on their wedding day. For the Almighty God promises a future of transformation, immeasurable blessings, the Gospel, joy, and peace. This is the peace we long for, when God restores all things, the hungry are fed, and wealth disparity disappears, which leads to harmony with God and one another. It is with this profound anticipation that we gather at the table and invite others to join us.

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Php 2:1–11.

The concept of reformation often evokes images of division, but its original intent, as seen in figures like Luther, was not to shatter the Church but to realign it with the mission of Christ. The goal was to purify the Church from worldly power and call it back to a ministry of grace, mercy, and peace. This need for reform, however, is not a distant historical event; it is a constant, personal summons. It would be dangerous to misread the Reformation as a simple rejection of authority. Rather, just as Luther sought a return to Christ’s teaching, we must continually examine where the Church today embraces power over the authority of Christ in our own lives. This perennial call for renewal is precisely what the Apostle Paul urges in his letter to the Philippians, reminding them to shed all “selfish ambition” and unite in the mind of Christ as we establish a pattern required to overcome every temptation toward sin.

Our primary aim in coming to the table of Christ must be to bring ourselves closer to Christ by intentionally drawing closer to one another, particularly to those with whom we most disagree. Paul builds his appeal for this unity in Philippians 2 by grounding it in the profound, shared spiritual realities of the believers. He employs four “if” clauses, not as statements of doubt, but as powerful rhetorical affirmations meaning “since.” He argues that since they have experienced “encouragement in Christ,” “comfort from love,” “participation in the Spirit,” and “any affection and sympathy,” these truths must compel them toward unity. Paul’s joy would be complete, he states, if they would manifest this intense unity through four reinforcing phrases: “being of the same mind,” “having the same love,” “being in full accord” (souls beating as one), and being “of one mind” (thinking the one thing).

To achieve this profound unity, Paul provides specific commands that target the roots of dissension: pride and self-interest. He mandates that the Philippians “do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit.” Selfish ambition refers to a spirit of factionalism and rivalry, while vain conceit denotes an empty, groundless pride. In direct opposition to these destructive attitudes, Paul commands them to act “in humility,” a concept Christianity ennobled from a term once meaning “base” or “groveling.” This humility is not false modesty but a conscious, deliberate judgment to “count others more significant” than themselves. This posture requires a radical shift in perspective, compelling each believer to “look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

This pathway of humility finds its perfect, ultimate expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul commands the Philippians, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.” Though Jesus existed “in the form of God” (morphē), possessing the very essence of Deity, He “did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped.” Instead, He “emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,” demonstrating His humility by “becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Because of this ultimate act of self-giving, “Therefore God has highly exalted him.” Christ’s exaltation is God’s thunderous repudiation of all human power structures built on pride. God’s answer is clear: true greatness is found in self-giving, and this greatness results in the highest “super-eminent exaltation,” where every knee in heaven, on earth, and under the earth will bow and “every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Christ completed His work on the cross by reconnecting humanity to the Almighty, and He calls on us to carry on that work by connecting with one another. The only path to the unity He commands begins by humbling ourselves, putting on the shoes of our neighbor, and seeking to understand and connect. This mission perfectly reflects the character of Christ, who showed us how to look out for one another. While the Reformation was sparked by items for discussion, its human result often reflected our sinful nature to divide, slicing the Church into denominations that segregate us. This hubris of “always being right” stands in opposition to the humility of Christ. Our true reformation, therefore, is an imitation of Christ. We must be transformed by the renewal of our hearts and minds, allowing the Spirit to root out sin and instill in us the attitude of Christ. Only through this humility and desire for unity will we finally find the exaltation of the Body of Christ.

A Psalm of David. 

 1  The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 

 2  He makes me lie down in green pastures. 

  He leads me beside still waters. 

 3  He restores my soul. 

  He leads me in paths of righteousness 

for his name’s sake. 

 4  Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil, 

  for you are with me; 

your rod and your staff, 

they comfort me. 

 5  You prepare a table before me 

in the presence of my enemies; 

  you anoint my head with oil; 

my cup overflows. 

 6  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me 

all the days of my life, 

  and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord 

forever. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ps 23:title–6.

Starting something new, whether joining a group or navigating an unfamiliar path in the dark, can fill anyone with anxiety. We fear being left behind, getting lost, or doing something wrong. This common human experience highlights a deeper anxiety about the darkness and hardships we encounter in life. The life of King David, though he was a king, was filled with near-death experiences and profound struggles. Yet, through it all, he found a constant light in the darkness because the Almighty Shepherd was present to guide him. Having been a shepherd, David uniquely understood the care and concern a shepherd has for his flock, and he used this powerful metaphor in Psalm 23 to illustrate God’s personal concern, guiding presence, and abundant provision for His people.

The foundation of the psalm’s comfort rests on the Lord’s deep, personal concern for our individual well-being. The power of the psalm is not just in its corporate truth, but in its intensely personal claim: “The LORD is my shepherd.” This confidence establishes God’s all-sufficiency in the midst of our struggles. This care is first expressed as provision for rest and refreshment. “He makes me lie down in green pastures” and “he leads me beside still waters” are images of spiritual nourishment and deep, consoling peace. Furthermore, this personal concern extends to spiritual renewal, as “He restores my soul.” He also provides moral direction, leading us in “paths of righteousness” not for our own merit, but “for his name’s sake,” an action consistent with His perfect character and covenant promises.

Even with this intimate care, life involves profound struggles, yet the Shepherd guides us through the most significant challenges. The psalm’s tone shifts dramatically as the serene landscape gives way to the “valley of the shadow of death.” In this place of terror, the psalmist declares, “I will fear no evil,” a courage founded not on self-reliance but on the Shepherd’s unwavering presence: “for you are with me.” This “valley” is not a permanent destination but a transient journey; the psalmist “walks through” it, suggesting a calm, composed pace toward safety on the other side. This comfort is symbolized by the “rod and staff,” the shepherd’s tools representing God’s dual function of powerful protection from external threats and gentle guidance back from danger. Our valleys, even when they are dire and at the point of death, are temporary, but the love of the Almighty is eternal.

The Shepherd’s guidance does not just end after the trial; it culminates in a display of abundant blessing, public vindication, and eternal security. The metaphor changes from God as Shepherd to God as gracious Host, who “prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” This act signifies God’s ultimate protection and public declaration of His faithfulness, honoring His child with a feast while enemies watch, powerless. This provision is extravagant, not minimal: “You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.” This relentless love, or chesed, is lifelong, as “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” The journey finds its ultimate destination in eternal, unbroken fellowship: “and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Therefore, we have no worries or concerns as Christ prepares the communion table for us, bringing restoration, renovation, and renewal to everyone who partakes in the bread and the cup. This isn’t a temporary act, but rather leads us into eternity.

Just as we find grace and peace leading us into eternity, the psalm reminds us that all of our doubts and fears can be put to rest because of the Almighty Shepherd. For in the run club, many a new runner fears being lost on a dark trail; we all face threats and valleys in our lives. Psalm 23 provides assurance that we have a Good Shepherd who cares for us, leads us from danger, and guides us into peace. This protection and guidance come at no cost to us; God prepares the table and pursues us with His relentless love. Therefore, just as we have been comforted, we are called to be instruments of that comfort for others, acting as God’s rod and staff to protect and guide those who are afflicted. God’s grace prepares our path, undeterred by our failures, and works continuously toward our full restoration. We must also strive for the same goal for those in our community, bringing God’s peace to the whole world.

3 And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. 4 There were some who said to themselves indignantly, “Why was the ointment wasted like that? 5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.” And they scolded her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. 9 And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Mk 14:3–9.

We often reserve items for “special occasions,” but many of these treasured possessions deteriorate or are ruined before the ideal moment arrives, just as my recent garage clean-up revealed numerous unusable items I’d saved. Similarly, while certain elements of praise and worship are set aside for specific times, we must not delay giving ourselves fully to God; even when prompted, we frequently postpone our devotion until specific times of the year. Yet, the story of the woman in the Gospel of Mark teaches us that now is the opportune moment to give completely to God, underscoring the urgency of worship and showing that our offerings must be centered on service and absolute devotion, holding nothing back from Him. 

True devotion, as illustrated by the woman, is marked by genuine sacrifice. She brought a flask of pure spikenard, a costly and precious oil, and broke the vessel to pour out every drop for Jesus. This was not a calculated donation or reserved offering; it was a complete outpouring of her resources and heart, worth more than a year’s wages. Her willingness to give all she had, holding nothing back, serves as a powerful example that honoring Christ means nothing is too precious to offer. Devotion requires us to trust and surrender our resources, affections, and priorities in worship, echoing the woman’s recognition of Jesus as Messiah and her spiritual insight into his coming sacrifice.

Yet, extravagant worship is often misunderstood and criticized, both by outsiders and fellow believers. The disciples’ reaction, seeing the woman’s gift as a waste that should have been sold for charity, exposes their limited understanding of the moment’s spiritual gravity. Their chastisement, particularly intense in its language, betrays both misguided concern and, in the case of Judas, selfish motives. The passage illuminates how true worship can defy conventions and be met with reproach; however, it is precisely when we silence these voices of doubt and give fully of ourselves for Christ, valuing Him above societal expectations and lesser concerns, that we emulate the woman’s absolute devotion.

Jesus’ response to the woman stands as the affirmation and reward for such sacrificial affection. He not only protects her from rebuke, but declares her deed “a beautiful thing,” elevating it as an enduring testament of faith and prophetic understanding. Where others saw waste, Jesus recognized an act of profound beauty, devotion, and harmony with God’s will. The legacy of the woman’s worship reassures all believers: even small or misunderstood acts of love for Christ have everlasting significance. In attending to the table of God, we are called to hold nothing back, trusting that such wholehearted giving is both noticed and celebrated in the heart of Jesus.

The gift was perfectly timed, arriving just as Jesus was about to be crucified and offered by a woman whose devotion was praised by Him, despite the disciples’ and others’ criticisms of its expense. Jesus held her up as an example of true worship: unreserved dedication to serving Christ’s ministry in the world. Now is the opportune moment to release all that we hold dear and worship the Almighty without reservation. Worship that is not used becomes stagnant, like items saved for a “special occasion” that are eventually discarded. Jesus calls us to His presence now, not in the future, asking us to give everything because our worship is of the highest value and should not be offered to anything that is not of God. Therefore, Christ invites us to give ourselves completely, withholding nothing: neither our finances, nor our time, nor any part of ourselves, from the full and total worship of God. Even if it seems irrational, we are called to give entirely. There is no need to save ourselves for a “rainy day,” because Jesus is here now, inviting us to come forward and share in the kingdom. When we encounter Jesus, we cannot hold anything back, so that our worship may be pure and pleasing in His sight.

9 Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn her seven pillars. 2  She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table. 3  She has sent out her young women to call from the highest places in the town, 4  “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” To him who lacks sense she says, 5  “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. 6  Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Pr 9:1–6.

One of the best nuggets of wisdom I have ever heard was that you should not grocery shop while hungry. If you are hungry while perusing the aisles you are theoretically more likely to overshop, and to buy things that you neither need, nor are good for you. However, your thought process is hijacked by the fact that you want to satisfy your hunger quickly, instead of nourishing your body. As one walks through the aisles of any grocery store there are many decisions that can be made. Walk through some aisles and they are full of highly processed foods that are pleasing to the tongue, but usually along the edges you will find the fresh produce and meat sections that are whole foods that are more nutritionally sound. As we encounter the news it might make our heads spin because it seems like everyday we are told something new is bad for us, which is why we must embrace a stance of wisdom whenever we engage with what and how we eat. Therefore, it is fitting that we engage with wisdom as we approach the table of the Lord. Wisdom prepares the table for us, so that we can walk away from simple minded talk and action, and turn to the nourishing meal offered at the table. Because at the table we find security, grace, and support of the Almighty through the feast wisdom provides.

Wisdom is built upon a strong, deliberate structure, one that grows through the steady accumulation of past lessons, experiences, and divine grace. This structure, symbolized by the number seven, represents perfection and completeness representing a sufficiency capable of welcoming all who seek understanding. This is represented through the sevenfold grace of the Holy Spirit described in Isaiah 11:2: wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the LORD, forms the fullness of this house, resting upon those who dwell in God’s truth. By dwelling in the structure one is encountered by an invitation to dine at Wisdom’s table; however, it is more than a call to Wisdom’s instruction; it is an act of grace, offering the soul the rich nourishment that only divine wisdom can provide. As outlined in the opening chapters of Proverbs, these teachings become the very pillars of the house which is a complete and secure dwelling not built for convenience but for stability and beauty, where those who enter find not fleeting insight but abiding strength, belonging, and peace.

From the firm foundation of her house, Wisdom extends her generosity through a table richly prepared with spiritual fruit and nourishment. Her feast is not one of scarcity but of abundance, designed to help the faithful grow in grace and settle God’s mercy deep within their hearts. As Proverbs declares, “She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table.” This is no simple meal, but a sacred feast centered on sacrifice, signifying both provision and atonement. The wine, mixed with spices, represents a joy perfected and a truth made complete, inviting all who hunger for righteousness to taste and see that the Lord is good. The food Wisdom offers is not ordinary sustenance but the rich fare of divine truth, through which one gains true life. Just as the tree of life offers continual renewal, so too does Wisdom’s banquet provide lasting nourishment for the soul. To partake of her table is to embrace peace, righteousness, and the deep consolations of the Spirit, entering into a fellowship that satisfies the heart more fully than any earthly feast can provide.

Wisdom’s invitation is extended to all, regardless of past folly or ignorance, calling each person to turn from the path of deception and approach her welcoming table. She does not conceal her appeal but proclaims it openly and boldly. As Scripture records, “She has sent out her young women to call from the highest places in the town,” ensuring that her voice reaches every ear and no one can claim to have been left uninformed. Her cry resounds not in secrecy but from the heart of the city, a message meant for every soul willing to hear. Yet the wonder of her invitation lies in whom she calls. It is not the learned, the proud, or the self-satisfied who are summoned, but the “simple” and the one who “lacks sense.” In this, the boundless grace of Wisdom is revealed. Her feast is for those who know their need, who hunger for understanding and truth. The offer is not based on worthiness but on humility and faith, transforming the naive and unwise into people who find life, joy, and spiritual fulfillment at her table.

Wisdom brings the nourishment that we desperately need. Both individually and corporately, Wisdom leads us toward a renewed faith and reliance upon God. For wisdom reminds us that at the table we cannot be proud or self-reliant, but we must fully relinquish our hearts, minds, and souls to Jesus who opens the table for us, even when we most certainly did not deserve even an invitation. As we navigate the flood of words that come at us from all sorts of mass media, it is imperative that we remember to start by feasting at the table that Wisdom has laid for us. This act is more than making the decision not to grocery shop while hungry, it is to allow the wisdom that comes from above to inform our actions and determine how we can best act out our faith in the world. There are going to be numerous voices clamouring for our attention from politicians, influencers, and celebrities to family members and friends that want to get our ear about everything that is going on around us. However, to truly feast on wisdom at God’s table will require our attention and focus to be on the Holy Spirit’s guidance to remain focused on a faith response to the world.

6  On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine, of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined. 7  And he will swallow up on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. 8  He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken. 9  It will be said on that day, “Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Is 25:6–9.

The majestic mountains surrounding us, with nearby peaks reaching 9,000 to 10,000 feet and Mount Whitney soaring over 14,000 feet, serve as a powerful reminder of our smallness within the created order and the surpassing beauty of God’s creation. Every year, thousands undertake the challenge to climb these summits, investing much training, preparation, and physical fitness, acquiring proper equipment, and ensuring adequate nourishment for the journey. While nothing compares to the incomparable thrill of a true mountain ascent, our attempts to reproduce these outdoor experiences through climbing gyms, swimming pools, and exercise machines offer some benefits but ultimately fall short of the exhilaration and wonder provided by God’s handiwork. In Isaiah 25, we glimpse a celebration atop a mountain, filled with joy and communion with God, inviting us to approach the table not in a quest to conquer heights but to enter a space prepared by the Almighty, where we may release our need to control variables and allow divine grace to shape our circumstances.

The feast described in Isaiah is more than any earthly banquet we could ever imagine for it is the Lord’s own table, set by His grace and overflowing with His goodness. Unlike human celebrations where we prepare and contribute, here we are simply called to receive. The Lord of Hosts provides everything that is required: nourishment for the soul, joy for the heart, and life everlasting. It is a feast of things that satiate us and all that brings us true joy and a deep satisfaction and gladness found only in the gospel of Christ. The setting is Mount Zion, the place of God’s presence and the birthplace of Gospel proclamation to all nations. Through this feast we are reminded that we are forever dependent on the Lord’s provision, however we cannot simply consume this meal for ourselves because in its very nature it sends us out to invite others into this love feast of grace, where every barrier to fellowship with God is broken down.

At this table, since we are fully connected to the Almighty, God does far more than satisfy our hunger because on the mountain He transforms our sinful condition to a restored connection. The prophecy promises that the Lord will lift the veil of blindness and ignorance that covers the nations through the light of His gospel in Christ. Most wondrously, He declares that He will “swallow up death forever,” turning our sin that serves as an insatiable destroyer into a defeated foe on the cross. In Christ’s own resurrection, we see the Almighty’s triumph over evil, and Paul reminds us that its fullest expression will come when believers can proclaim, “Death, where is your sting?” To sit at this feast means stepping into a new reality where sorrows are healed, tears are wiped away, and shame is removed. Even now, every taste of the gospel is a foretaste of that eternal day when suffering will no longer haunt God’s people, and joy will never be interrupted.

With the final cry of this passage, our hearts are fully consumed with the shout of redemption: “Behold, this is our God, we have waited for Him!” Our hearts recognize God through the presence of such abundance, and the grace draws us back to the Originator of All Good Gifts, the One whose presence is the true delight of the feast. The long wait of faith is not in vain, for Christ has come and revealed the fullness of God’s salvation. What the faithful before knew only in shadow, we now know in the clear light of the gospel: that Christ is the Lord who saves, and that in Him our joy is complete. This is not just a theological truth to study, but an invitation to rejoice. As we sit at His table even now by faith, our hearts are lifted to the promise of sitting with Him forever, where death and sorrow are gone and gladness in His salvation never ends.

With hearts full of joy, we come to the Lord’s Table, a tangible symbol of the salvation God Almighty promised through the prophets. In the new covenant, Jesus’s offering of the cup and bread at this table represents the most profound nourishment imaginable, imbued with the very love of God. Here, all manufactured things fade, replaced by divine grace. While we often seek the real in the physical world, like mountains or the satisfaction of strenuous achievement, Jesus reminds us that He is the ultimate reality. Coming to His Table isn’t a struggle, for He has freely given us a salvation more real than any earthly exhilaration, granting us a euphoric joy that transforms our hearts into beacons of peace for the world. Therefore, we are called to navigate the world with the joy of salvation, carrying this spirit to the Table of the Lord. The joy within the faith community signals to the world that the church offers something truly worth pursuing. Have you shared this joy today? The peace of God, presented to the world, begins with a heart overflowing with joy.

A Song of Ascents. Of David. 

1  Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! 

2  It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, 

on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! 

3  It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! 

For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ps 133.

When entering any theme park, there are at least two portals that you must pass through before actually entering the theme park. The first is security, where they check your bag and you pass through a metal detector. This is usually cold and sterile and those passing through often are plagued with anxiety. The second is the actual theme park gate where the sounds of the park are leaking out, the smells of the popcorn and churros wafting through the air. The sights, sounds, and smells fill people with excitement and anticipation of what they are about to experience. When going through the sterile security portal, the experience feels far away and our minds often set aside the happiness we are about to experience, because we are taken out of the reason we are there. As a result, we are more likely to isolate and focus on getting through the checkpoint. In contrast, the gates of the theme park have music, decorations, and smells to fill you with anticipation. This environment encourages the camaraderie of anticipation of a shared experience that brings joy and fascination. The senses are powerful in connecting us together, and reminding us that we are here for a purpose. As we approach the gates of the theme park we unite in the excitement that awaits us. We should approach the Lord’s Table in much the same way, united with the excitement that something awaits for the faithful and we should be connected to one another so that it exudes a sensory response similar to the smells, sights, and sounds for those waiting in line to enter the theme park. As the people of Israel would climb the mount toward the temple they would sing together a series of songs and psalms. These would connect the people with the purpose they held together as they approached the worship of the Lord. This worship wasn’t an individual act, but something where the community rose up together as a united group so that the Lord might be praised and the world might be blessed by their unity.

A spirit of divisiveness arises when individuals prioritize their own well-being at the expense of others, creating a world characterized by separation and conflict. Since the beginning of the twentieth century, numerous wars and conflicts illustrate a universal state of brokenness, both from the Almighty and also from one another. The most regrettable scandal, however, is not the brokenness in the world, but the brokenness found within the church itself. This internal brokenness is not just in the separation between denominations, but in the splintered relationships within individual congregations. It manifests as isolation, factions seeking political or economic control, spiritual leaders who listen to petty chatter instead of divine guidance, and damaging gossip that is often cloaked in the language of spiritual concern. In such a state, many Christians may seek influence, but what is truly needed is the power of the Holy Spirit, which cannot be obtained through worldly means, but is essential for dismantling the walls that separate us.

Unity serves as the direct antidote to the divisive nature that is so common in our society. It is an experience that is both fulfilling and perfect, creating a delightful and beautiful sense of togetherness that fosters peace and hope. While this does not require believers to live together physically, it highlights the profound value of spiritual harmony among God’s people. This true unity is a joyful state, rooted in a shared commitment to resolving difficulties and strengthening relationships, rather than simply avoiding conflict. The church has the potential to be a catalyst for bringing people together by putting aside words that cause separation. By doing so, it can offer the world a taste of the greatness that awaits in the Kingdom of God, and when the church is unified, those outside of it will notice the difference of its people.

The psalmist uses the powerful symbol of the precious anointing oil used to consecrate the high priests, setting them apart for their sacred duty, to highlight what unity looked and smelled like. The image of this fragrant oil flowing abundantly from Aaron’s head down to the collar of his robes signifies a blessing that is both plentiful and pervasive. The oil serves as a powerful representation of the Holy Spirit, the author of unity. As at Pentecost the Holy Spirit united all the church so that the language although different was understood by all. Just as the strongly perfumed oil would have been a delight to all who were nearby, the unity among God’s people is fragrant and appealing to outsiders. Conversely, the stench of disunity drives people away, and without this holy love, our spiritual offerings are not acceptable. Just as the oil flowed from Aaron’s head to his beard, and ultimately to his body, this suggests that the Holy Spirit flows from Christ, the head, to empower the church, His body.

Just as God’s blessing is poured out on a congregation that works together in unity, that blessing also spills out to the rest of the world, which should bring believers great joy. This refreshing and life-giving nature of unity is also symbolized by the dew of Mount Hermon, which was a crucial source of life for the land of Israel. Just as the dew cools the heat of human passions and encourages fruitfulness, unity reinvigorates the church and allows it to focus on its mission of spreading the gospel. The image of dew from the distant northern mountain falling on the southern mountain of Zion illustrates the widespread and unifying power of God’s blessing, connecting in spirit those who are far apart physically. Ultimately, it is only through God’s Spirit and the promise of eternal life that the sin of selfishness in our hearts can be overcome, breaking down our divisions and making us one. Just as the people would often walk a long distance to go to the temple, the singing and unity that they embodied reached the towns and places that they passed along the way, and in the same way our unity must be a blessing to the world as we pass by.

The singing on the walk up the temple mount exemplifies the beauty and blessing of unity among God’s people. It is a state of being “good and pleasant,” likened to the sacred anointing oil that consecrates and the life-giving dew that refreshes. This unity, powered by the Holy Spirit and centered on God’s appointed place of blessing, Zion, is not only delightful but also productive, leading to “life forevermore.” The psalm serves as a powerful exhortation for believers to actively pursue and maintain such holy concord, recognizing it as a divine command and a testament to God’s presence and grace. Looking at the theme park, and we look at the reality of the world around us, which requires us to go through the security lines that steal our joy. When we are here we stand as individuals with our lives laid bare for others to pick through our belongings to determine if we are able to come in. However, there is new found joy on the other side. The sights and sounds, smells and tastes of the theme park draw us in, but the music fills us with anticipation of the wonder that awaits us. We come to the gates sharing the joy with one another, and an abundant grace is all around us. The Kingdom of God is like this, and we hearken to living like it when we join together in unity, because God’s blessing is found in the midst of our connection with one another. However, the church must also recognize that much of the world is on the outside of that security line. Hope and Joy are endangered when viewed from that side of the line, and while it might seem bleak and hard to get people to get into that line, it is the job of the church and the people of the church to bring the pleasing odors out to the security line, the music that speaks to unity needs to be sung as we approach, and the church must bring Hope and Joy and anticipation with us even in the cold security line. For our theme park is better than even Disneyland, because we await eternity with the Almighty, and the music is better, the sights more amazing, and the smells and tastes are second to none.

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ac 2:42–47.

Whether we learned it in Kindergarten or living in a house with a dozen college roommates, sharing is imperative to living in a peace-filled environment. When we don’t share and make sure others are cared for, there is a certain sense of chaos that ensues. Anyone who has been in a room where two small children are fighting over a toy knows that it is the antithesis of peace. However, it is really no different from living in a communal environment, where one person hoards the good food immediately after the house steward has gone shopping. This was the situation in my fraternity house when the house manager came back from Costco, and no more than an hour after everything had been unloaded, the Oreos disappeared, which ultimately caused a rift within the community and rising tensions between members. This situation underlies the need for peace in any communal situation. When we live together, we need peace, and as Christ invites us to the table, we must do so with a mindset of peace and caring for one another. The early Christian community, immediately following Pentecost, exhibited qualities that set them apart from the rest of their world and contributed to its rapid growth and impact. They came to the table with an understanding that there must be peace within the community, which could be accomplished by sharing with one another. This mentality showed up through devotion to the scriptures and learning, community building, generosity, worship, and evangelism.

As the early Church gathered, they did so as Acts 2:42 states they “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship.” They showed themselves to be persistent, devoted, and passionately committed to enriching their minds with the teaching of the Apostles and the Scriptures. They were first and foremost a learning church, seeking to feast upon the words of truth. Through learning not only taught and learned, but they also submitted to the apostles’ teaching, rooted in Scripture. In the same way, we must be eager to learn and strive after an intellectual desire to constantly have our minds transformed, and seek to study the truth with our fullest effort, because anti-intellectualism is incompatible with being fulfilled by the Spirit. A mind on fire for God is a Spirit-filled mind. For us today, this means constantly understanding what God is speaking to us through the Scriptures and the teaching in the Church. We must be a people who are steadfast in the Word, because where we spend our time consuming reveals where our minds are devoted. Thus, if we are to follow the example of the early Christians, we must devote our minds completely to studying the Word and sharing it with one another.

As one dives deep into the Scriptures, one will find that there is an expression for this community that uses the Greek word koinonia (κοινωνίᾳ). It means a deep, mutual sharing of life, not just polite sharing of a few kind words during the fifteen minutes of fellowship time. This requires a full commitment to each other and a common interest in one another’s well-being. The danger comes when we think that koinonia is simply a spiritual concept; when, in fact, it is absolutely practical and tangible. Acts 2:44-45 expresses how the early Christians lived out this idea, “All that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.” The giving expressed in this was not forced, but rather showed itself through the free expression of care for one another by sharing their physical possessions. It was a voluntary generosity driven by love, and it happened consistently in response to the needs within the community. We see how this act of giving is supposed to be done freely and not begrudgingly, as in Acts 5, where Ananias reluctantly gave and withheld a portion; however, the sin wasn’t owning property, but lying about his giving. Generosity must flow from changed hearts. With changed hearts, the believers have contempt for the world’s priorities because of their assurance of another world. This in turn results in how Acts portrays the community as having “no needy persons among them” (Acts 4:34). Thus, in learning to care for one another, we can imagine a community with no envy, no pride, no grudges, but overwhelming joy and care. External sharing simply reflects the internal change the Spirit works in our hearts.

As the church allowed the Spirit to transform their minds from selfish worldly desires and into a heart that is willing to give, it also allowed their faith to permeate every aspect of their existence. This included the “Breaking of Bread” (Acts 2:42), which encompassed both the Lord’s Supper and their daily communal meals. They participated in supporting one another with gladness and singleness of heart, representing simplicity, sincerity, and an absence of hidden motives. Their worship includes “The Prayers” (Acts 2:42), which reminds and demonstrates utter reliance on God. They worshipped publicly, “daily with one accord in the temple,” and privately, “breaking bread from house to house” (Acts 2:46). This showed that worship was to integrate into every aspect of a Christ follower’s life, and established traditions with intimate, home-based fellowship. Their lives were consistently marked by “praising God” (Acts 2:47), a spontaneous expression of the Spirit dwelling within them. Thus, the action of giving one’s heart to living out a life in the Spirit of God necessitates that every single aspect of our lives be given over to our worship of God, both in public and in private.

The post-Pentecost church represents what the Lord desires for every Christian and congregation. Through the coming Spirit, it signifies the transformation of human personality and the enabling of the human spirit by the divine Spirit to know unqualified love. The early Christians’ willingness to sell possessions demonstrated their transferred thoughts to things future, and looked for nothing in things present. This contrasts sharply with later tendencies to cling to wealth, which Chrysostom identifies as a root of evil. It is like a person who needs to shed worldly attachments to effectively contend against evil. Retaining riches or worldly concerns makes one vulnerable to the enemy. However, too often, Satan has no need to do the work because we do it all ourselves through covetousness and greed. Within the fraternity house, the disappearing Oreos sparked a string of complaints and even a discussion about adding provisions to the house rules that would impose fines on anyone caught hoarding any of the house food in their rooms or cars. However, we could have probably taken a page out of the way the early Church cared for one another. No special rules or restrictions needed to be imposed, because people gave freely and cared deeply for one another, such that any need was met with a caring response and sharing of resources. It is a reminder that when we share, we show another a caring that reflects the love of Christ and empowers the church to allow the Holy Spirit to move through our community with a message of hope that brings peace.

23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 27 Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. 31 But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world. 33 So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another— 34 if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home—so that when you come together it will not be for judgment. About the other things I will give directions when I come.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), 1 Co 11:23-34.

When invited into someone’s home, we instinctively understand that there are unwritten rules of conduct and customs that require our respect and observance. The fear of unintentionally transgressing these norms and causing offense is a common anxiety. We strive to enter and conduct ourselves in a respectful manner, honoring the space our host has shared with us. This might mean removing our shoes at the door, a simple act that acknowledges their cultural or personal preferences. Similarly, as we approach the Lord’s Supper, we are invited to a sacred table, and it is equally crucial that we prepare ourselves to participate in the right way. This preparation is not a matter of mere etiquette but of spiritual readiness, requiring us to examine our hearts, understand the significance of the elements, and reflect on the profound message Christ conveys through this holy sacrament.

The initial step in this sacred preparation is self-examination. The Apostle Paul commands, “Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28, ESV). This is not a call to determine our inherent worthiness—for on those terms, none would qualify—but a directive to scrutinize our motives, attitudes, and conduct, particularly toward our fellow believers. We are to approach the table with a clear conscience and love for our community. Engaging in the Supper with a heart marked by divisiveness, selfishness, or a lack of compassion makes us unworthy of the blessing at the table and must be avoided. However, the judgment that follows such behavior is not a final condemnation, but rather a corrective act from a loving Father, designed to guide us back onto the right path and prevent us from being condemned along with the world. True, honest self-scrutiny allows us to address what is amiss in our hearts, thereby averting the need for such discipline.

Central to the Lord’s Supper are the elements themselves: the bread and the cup. When Jesus instituted this meal, He gave thanks, a word that gives us the term “Eucharist,” transforming the rite into a profound sacrifice of thanksgiving for the ultimate gift of Jesus Christ. He took bread, broke it, and declared, “This is my body, which is for you” (1 Corinthians 11:24, ESV). While His physical body was not broken on the cross, the breaking of the bread symbolizes the sacrificial offering of His life for us. Likewise, He took the cup, calling it “the new covenant in my blood” (1 Corinthians 11:25, ESV). This powerful statement signifies a new, unbreakable agreement between God and humanity, sealed not with the blood of animals but with the precious blood of Christ, which offers forgiveness, the promise of eternal life, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. These elements, as connected directly to Christ, serve as a personal invitation to approach the table, and our response requires more than just walking through tradition for tradition’s sake.

Beyond reflection and connection to Christ’s sacrifice, the sacrament leads toward profound anticipation. We are called to partake “in remembrance of me,” an active recollection of Christ’s love, sacrifice, and power. Yet, this remembrance is intrinsically linked to a future hope. As Paul states, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26, ESV). The word “proclaim” is a strong one; the act of communion is a powerful sermon, preaching the reality of Christ’s death to a watching world. This proclamation carries an eschatological weight, pointing forward to the day of Christ’s promised second coming. Therefore, we cannot be trite in our observance of Communion or The Lord’s Supper because it is the hope for the Church. It is in this spirit of shared hope that believers are admonished to ensure the Supper is an expression of unity and fellowship, not division. As such, the Table serves as a symbol and sign of the hope inherent within the body of Christ, and acts as a light for the world.

The Lord’s Table serves a divine purpose: to draw us into a closer, more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Approaching it correctly means preparing our hearts through honest introspection, reverently accepting the elements as symbols of a new covenant, and participating in a way that honors God and aligns with His mission for our lives. Just as we show respect when entering a friend’s home, we must approach this sacred invitation with reverence. It is at the table that Christ unites us, reminding us that a holy transformation occurs when we break down the walls that separate us and come together in peace and love. This spiritual renewal, completed by the Holy Spirit, is not meant to remain within the church walls but to flow out, impacting the entire world.

17 But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. 18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part, 19 for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. 20 When you come together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat. 21 For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. 22 What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), 1 Co 11:17–22.

In the opening of the movie, Forrest Gump, the character Forest walks down the aisle of the bus and every child tells him that he is not welcome to sit with them until he connects with the kindness of a young girl who invites him to sit with her. Religion has been likened to a bus to many of the Forrests throughout our society. You don’t look right for one faith, you don’t speak right for another, you don’t act right for yet another. In a similar circumstance, Jesus appeared in a world where people were constantly told they were not good enough to be part of the church. Breaking through that rhetoric, Jesus opened up His table to the outcast, the broken, the left behind, and even His betrayer. The early church would go on to practice meals together to show that they were all equal in the eyes of God and the Church, and background didn’t matter because at the table, they were all one. However, over time, the meal at the table began to be plagued by the same spirit that infected the children on Forrest Gump’s bus, fear and ostracism of those who were different. Specifically, Paul uses this letter to call out the Corinthian church for coming to the table to highlight their differences, rather than the good that they have been called to do by Christ.

Paul’s rebuke of the Corinthian church’s gatherings reveals how their assemblies, intended for spiritual growth, were actively causing harm and destroying fellowship. The apostle, who previously commended them, now states, “I do not praise you, since you come together not for the better but for the worse” (1 Corinthians 11:17, ESV). This stark contrast highlights the severity of the issue, as the church’s conduct was not only failing to improve its community but was actively making it worse. This rebuke must lead each of us to investigate whether our times of meeting are a cause for good or lead to further division. Christian ordinances that don’t make us better will likely make us worse, as spiritual acts can harden rather than heal. The seriousness of this “coming together for the worse” is an inevitable outcome of failing to come together for the better. In Corinth, the destructive behavior was so severe that it was leading to the destruction of the body of Christ. If church meetings cause “more destruction than edification,” it’s better to abstain from them altogether. Ultimately, Paul reminds the faith community that a church gathering that lacks love and peace can break down community rather than build it up. It is imperative that the church heed Paul’s warning.

Divisions within the church, evident in cliques and factions, can seriously damage community trust and undermine the very message of the Gospel. In Corinth, these breaks were not just minor disagreements; they were visible divisions that manifested during communal gatherings like the Lord’s Supper. Paul’s language use regarding the conflicts indicates a progression from internal disagreements to more serious, confirmed rifts within the congregation. What might we see in our congregations as cliques rise? So too does the chasm between people. Look at where and how we sit in the sanctuary, or in the fellowship hall, is it done in such a way that we, even unintentionally, cause people to be left out? We are not all the same, and God has blessed us with diversity of thought and mind, so that while division might naturally occur, God calls us all to the table, as it is a good place where our differences might exist while being united under Christ’s mandate to come together. While some are divided on doctrine, others have interpersonal division; however, both point to a deep-seated disunity. Paul even admits that factions are, in a way, necessary, not because God desires evil, but because He uses these challenges to reveal who the genuine, approved believers are, much like fire refines gold. Often, the root of these divisions stemmed from social and economic differences, creating an environment where opposing viewpoints led to schism and a breakdown of fellowship. Ultimately, such internal strife compromises the church’s peace and unity. Even in the face of difference, the church must be a place where we can come together.

The Communion Table, or the Lord’s Supper, is the ultimate way that the church opens the door to unity even among disagreements and differences. The way the early Corinthian church conducted its gatherings was so flawed that it betrayed the very nature of the Lord’s Supper. Their assemblies were marked by a shocking selfishness and exclusion where wealthier members would arrive early, eat their own provisions, and become intoxicated, leaving nothing for the poorer members who came later. This behavior transformed a sacred, communal feast into a private meal, emphasizing individual needs over shared fellowship. Such conduct demonstrated a profound contempt for the church and a deep disregard for its members, particularly those with little. The purpose of the Lord’s Supper was to be a unifying symbol of Christ’s body, and by their actions, the Corinthians were doing the opposite—they were humiliating the poor and showing that they did not value all members equally. No one member of the church can be valued more than any other by any person. This act of favoritism and isolation will break the purpose of the Lord’s Supper and create a schism that places a shroud over the Gospel. A meal that fails to welcome everyone to the table, and instead is driven by selfish desires, is fundamentally not the table the Lord invites his followers to. Therefore, it is the purpose of the church to welcome one another and share the Gospel in a spirit of overwhelming generosity.

As we approach the Communion Table, we must examine the purpose with which we arrive to participate in the sacrament. If it is simply going through the motions without recognizing what Jesus changed within our faith community at the table, we need to stop and reflect. The table brings us together and obliterates our differences. The purpose for coming to the table must be good, and to share with one another that we are part of a new covenant that forgives our sins and allows us to be made worthy by the blood of Christ. This allows equality among all of us while we embrace the beauty in each person in the same way God looks upon us and, through the sacrifice of Christ, sees us as GOOD. As people walk down the aisle of life, the churches proclaiming Christ must not look like each of the children rejecting a spot for a young Forrest Gump. Instead, we must follow the example of Jenny and offer a seat at the table to those looking for hope, peace, and love. By doing this, the table becomes a place where good happens, good is expressed, and good is experienced by all.