I pray that you and yours are well on these cold January days. Nothing like a little cold snap to clear the air and let us know that winter has finally arrived.

 

This Sunday we're all invited to breakfast in St. David's Hall after the 9:15 worship in the Chapel. The Fellowship and Discipleship Commissions have come up with a wonderful idea to offer an all-parish breakfast once a month, so that we can spend more time together, have something good to eat, and grow in our friendship with one another and with God. There'll be some light conversation teasers that I'll be offering, but it's primarily an opportunity for us to be together. I hope and pray that you will come and join us, either after you've worshiped God at 9:15 or before going to the church for the 11:15 service.

 

Jesus did some of his best work at the table. Of course, there's the Last Supper that we remember Sunday by Sunday; but all through the Gospels, especially in Luke's Gospel (which we're reading in church this year), Jesus is at table with his followers, with sinners, with his enemies, and just about anyone who is willing to show up. Jesus knew what you and I know - sharing a meal together is one of the ways we grow together. The simple act of sharing a meal and some conversation opens our hearts to one another and we are changed.

 

The little piece of scripture at the top of this message is one of the post-resurrection moments with Jesus at the table. He is walking on the road to Emmaus with two of his followers on the first Easter morning. They don't recognize him, perhaps because they don't expect to see him since he died on the cross, or maybe because he's somehow different in his bodily form. Along the way, he explains to them that the Messiah must die and be raised from the dead. Then, as Jesus is going to continue, they invite him to eat with them, and then they recognize him.

 

Meals together can be important times and while this Sunday may not be quite as powerful as that first Easter morning was for two of Jesus' first followers, it might be.

 

See you at breakfast.