My husband is a chef which makes the holidays particularly yummy and exciting. Setting the table, choosing a menu and keeping in mind the people that will fill the seats is a true blessing that I try not to ever take for granted. As I plan for Holiday dinners and sharing meals and making memories with loved ones and dear friends, I realize even more, how powerful the table metaphor is.
If your table isn’t what you had in mind this year or if it’s feeling empty because of loss, take heart my sweet friend, God is preparing for you a new table.
As we get older, it’s hard to consistently look forward. Memories and broken dreams, lost friendship and change can often fight for our peace. Don’t let that derail you and distract you from the table God gave you, today. I no longer have my dad or my little brother around my table, today. And no amount of wallowing will change that. I have learned over the last couple of years that memories are sacred gifts from heaven, and we keep them, forever.
So when you find yourself reflecting on the past tables, offer a praise song along with whatever sentiment you’re sitting with. And don’t sit too long! Laugh to yourself, cry for a little, smile and praise God for his gifts. And move through the memories as you plant your feet and dream about future ones! I owe a relatively healthy heart in spite of my loss to this God given desire to dream. Tap into your dreamy state because dreams keep hope alive. Remember, God is preparing for you new dreams, a new table!
I am Thankful for tables. For the tables I have enjoyed over the years, full of memories and family and friends that have made my life, a life worth living. For the tables I get to prepare, now. Sprinkled with new friends and old friends, all hand picked by a God who loves me (and you) and wants to continue to prepare tables before me (and you)!
Lets consider & be thankful for the tables God is preparing for us in advance! Regardless of where you find yourself and your heart this Thanksgiving, I want you to know that God is preparing for you, new tables. He wants to fill your table with delightful and true friendship. He wants to equip you to set a table for others and experience all the rich depths this life has to offer. Trust him, this season, and remember as you sit and enjoy your Thanksgiving the chief giver, and builder of tables, is preparing a new table for you.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Molly