THANKFUL

Friday, February 26, 2021

Lord, You “welcomed sinners and even ate with them” (Luke 15:2). To the self-righteous, this was unthinkable since they were certain sinners, tax collectors, and degenerates were enemies of God. Their immoral lifestyles couldn’t match the religious elite’s perfection. If Jesus were who He claimed to be, they reasoned, He would know what kind of people they were. Lord, You knew exactly who these “sinners” were. They were people just like me who You came to save. Centuries earlier, the psalmist foretold Your actions. “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies” (Psalm 23:5). Thank You, Lord, for inviting me to dine with You. Sad the elites refused Your invitation. By the way, Lord, may I have a second helping?

Again, we ask for Your grace for our friends recovering from the blizzard last week. Provide their needs and give them all safe shelter, food and water as they rebuild their lives. Expose all unscrupulous contractors who would take advantage of their misfortune. May the skeptics of the world see the works of the church as selfless, genuine and compassionate. Open the eyes of the spiritually blind to see You in a whole new light and seek to know You. May they not decline the invitation to “come and dine” at Your table.

Feasting with You, Jesus, Amen.