Sitting at the Table
The starting point for a Christian is not following, but sitting. It's a position of rest. Watchman Nee writes, "Most Christians make the mistake of trying to walk in order to be able to sit, but that is a reversal of the true order. Our natural reason says, 'If we do not walk, how can we ever reach the goal? What can we attain without effort? How can we ever get anywhere if we do not move?' If at the outset we try to do anything, we get nothing; if we seek to attain something, we miss everything. For Christianity begins not with a big DO, but with a big DONE. We are invited at the very outset to sit down and enjoy what God has done for us; not to set out to try and attain it for ourselves." [1]
As I think of the human journey, I see God inviting us to sit at three tables -
- We are invited to sit at the table in the presence of our enemies. (Psalm 23:5)
- We are invited to sit at the Communion Table with Christ. (Luke 22:14)
- We are invited to sit at the Great Banquet Table of the Kingdom. (Luke 14:15-24)
Are you facing enemies? Difficult circumstances? Take the seat Christ has prepared for you.
Are you longing for acceptance? Connection? Safety? Forgiveness? Love? Take your seat at the Communion Table and fellowship with Christ.
Are you looking for purpose? Fulfillment? Your ministry or calling? Take your seat at the Kingdom Table and invite people to come with you. Compel them to come.
Christ makes the table ready. The disciples did make preparations (Luke 22), but it was Christ who initiated the gathering. Christ has done all that is necessary. That's the beauty of sitting and being seated with Christ in Heavenly Places (Eph. 2:6). Our relationship with God and walking the Kingdom path with Him, begins with Jesus. It begins with Jesus and ends with Jesus. We discover our joy and satisfaction when we take our place at the table, regardless of our situation, and enjoy fellowship with Him.
[1] Nee, Watchman. Sit, Walk, Stand,. Tyndale House Publishers. 1977.