A "celebration of Life" always brings relatives from all over the country, people who have not gathered together in years but have the common bond of ancestors to adhere to when devastation comes. We are saddened and shocked at the devastating loss of a family member who died much too soon. Meanwhile, another family that has "adopted" me gathers in Arizona on the very same day for the very same purpose. My heart is broken. Both families mourn the loss of people in their 40's supposedly in the prime of life, neither with a terminal diagnosis. They were snatched out of everyday life with no warning. As we are preparing to join with family and weep together, I have been seeking guidance from the only One who has any answers. Why? that's always the big question.
I asked the LORD to lead me to a place in Scripture to find comfort. He led me to Psalm 23. Seriously Psalm 23. I thought, "Well, that's not terribly original" Everyone knows that Scripture, there must be something more I could be given than the verse on magnets all across the globe!"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will not fear, for you are with me."
Great stuff, really great stuff but a bit overused don't you think God? As I continued my complaint to the Creator regarding His uninspired Scripture choice, He gently led me to verse 5.
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies."
And that is when the Spirit of the Lord led me anew in Bible study.
Just picture the scene...Jesus, the Christ is setting the table. The table, a place to sit and rest, to find sustanance and strength. The Comforter is setting a place at the table for me, for you, for all the gathered loved ones. All the while the enemy swirls around the room. Jehovah Jireh doesn't make the enemy leave, which He certainly has the power to do - No, he just continues to provide for us a place to sit awhile, to rest with Him in the presence of the enemy. The enemy is right there watching us sit with our Savior. Oh, imagine how infuriating that must be for the enemy, to see us sitting awhile with God in the middle of his swirl of death and devastation.
The real question is, will you take a seat at the table? It is an action, a decision -- that free will thing again. Will I take a seat and rest with the Savior or will I continue to stand in the swirl the enemy wishes for more destruction.
Give us the strength this weekend to gather and sit together at the LORD's table set for us.
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