Who’s Coming to Dinner?

Thanksgiving is coming soon. It should be an occasion for joy and gratitude. There will be a feast to share with family and friends. Yes, that’s what it would be like if we were already living in the long-awaited kingdom of God.

If you are hosting the dinner, there is a good chance you might be anxious about what your guests’ expectations will be. Will there be some who observe special religious dietary laws? Will some need to restrict what they eat or drink for medical reasons? Will the person who was on a paleo diet last year be a vegan this year? Maybe a guest or two will turn down your invitation for one of these reasons.

Paul seems to have encountered similar problems. That’s why he reminded his Roman readers not to be stumbling blocks to one another. That sounds like good advice.

So?don’t push second helpings on people who are trying to lose weight, offer non-alcoholic drinks as well as alcoholic ones, be mindful of food allergies and prepare both meat and meatless dishes. Let the Holy Spirit look after the joy, peace and righteousness part of the meal.

Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest at every meal. Amen. — CKA