Sabbath Psalms - Welcome Table

Psalm 146:7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. (NIV) 

I recently began working as a part-time interim pastor in a local Presbyterian congregation. It was nice to get back into ministry and I really appreciate the welcome that the church folks have given to my wife and me. We both look forward to being here for at least six months.

Every congregation has its own unique ministries and this one – First Presbyterian Oak Ridge – is no exception. The church folks focus on social justice issues and even in the few weeks that I have been here, they are teaching me a lot of new things.

One of them is called ‘The Welcome Table.’ It takes place each month in the Fellowship Hall. The congregation provides a hot meal to anyone who wishes to come along. They also have several tables of groceries that the attendees can pick up to take home with them after the meal.

Those who come along are very grateful for the meal that is given, and for the fact that the church members serve people at their tables, bringing plates of food to them, just as if it was in a restaurant. Rather than have people stand in line, the church members humbly serve as waiters to the recipients. This means that those who have food insecurity issues are not treated like clients but are respected as equals. And when everyone is served, the church folks bring their own plates of food to the tables, to eat and converse with those who attend. In this way, several friendships have grown between those who serve and those who receive

I like to think that this is how God welcomes us to His table, whether it be for Communion or just fellowship with one another. It’s a beautiful thought that God treats us all equally, doing it lovingly while maintaining respect and dignity for all of us who experience His blessings.

Point to ponder: How am I supporting food pantries and other food distribution missions?

Prayer: Lord God, thank You for blessing us through times of insecurity and need. Help us to remember to share Your grace with others and treat one another as Your children. In your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.

John Stuart is a Scottish Presbyterian pastor living in Knoxville, Tennessee.