photo: CCO public domain
Photo:CCO public domain
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;Psalm 23:5a (ESV)
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You prepare a table before me…
I’m trying to imagine what that is like
Or would have been for David.
He was surrounded by enemies!
Imagine being served a delicious meal on a beautiful table as well as being comforted and having your wounds treated…with your enemies close enough to watch but not able to hurt you!
Saul was hunting him down.
He wanted to kill David.
There were plenty of other enemies as well.
At times, he had some of his own sons who were out to kill him
And overthrow his kingdom.
There were enemies from surrounding kingdoms too.
But the picture here is of GOD preparing a meal for him
While his enemies watched!
It sounds like there was a bubble of peace and nourishment
In the middle of anything but that!
Are you watching for the places the good Shepherd is preparing a table for you? Are you willing to set aside time to spend at the table with Him?
Where do you find the good Shepherd preparing a table for you?
It implies protection as well doesn’t it?
What more could you want?
Safety, nourishment, warm hospitality? stop
If you aren’t finding this in your life,
Maybe you aren’t taking time to avail yourself of something that is available.
Times for worship to restore my soul are many…
But do I take them quietly away from the noise or do I veg in front of a screen?
Safety, nourishment, warm hospitality? If you aren't finding this in your life, maybe you aren't taking time to avail yourself Share on X
Gathering with the Body of Christ for the blessing of worship together…
Does it take a little extra effort? Yes.
But these days, few churches dress up fancy anymore.
You can come as you are to worship.
Your children don’t have to be spotless. Put on a clean diaper
Wipe off their faces and you are good to go.
Gathering with the Body of Christ for the blessing of worship together... Does it take a little extra effort? Yes. Share on X
Depending on the denomination, communion is available some weeks, even weekly.
It is a means of grace. It feeds your soul as you remember what Christ did on the cross.
Being with other believers encourages you…especially when you talk to them.
Singing, praying together and hearing GOD’s Word read aloud…all feed your soul.
I love this picture of being fed by the good Shepherd in the presence of our enemies…
As He protects, nourishes and cares for us.
May He bless and keep you during this wonderful season!
Thank-you for calling us to worship as we are, wherever there are disciples who call him Savior. I am on my way there now.
blessings gabriele! enjoy the feast.
So true! We need to be on the lookout for those times to spend at the table with the Lord.
i agree kadie…and be alert to the provisions He makes for us along the way when we often needlessly struggle on our own.
Love! A table indeed is set before us. Very thought provoking post. Parked in the #3 spot today.
yes tara, i enjoyed your post today. the idea that He has set the table for us…not only set it, but placed the food there to nourish us and provide comfort. Quite amazing isn’t it?
i’m always happy when a person finds my post to be thought provoking:)
I had to think of the same story – I am so glad for this example and want to “carry” lots of people to my table…
i’m glad you enjoyed it katha. blessings as you enter this happy advent season.
That verse came to my mind too but I didn’t know where to go with it so I appreciated reading your thoughts and how you expanded on it. I love your description of “bubbles of peace and nourishment” and the need to look out for where God is preparing those for us. Hope you had a happy Thanksgiving.
thanks carly:) blessing as you continue in a mode of thanksgiving and move into the advent season.