“Later, when Jesus was eating supper at Matthew’s house with his close followers, a lot of disreputable characters came and joined them.” (Matthew 9:10 MSG)
Jesus often did the unexpected. In fact, He had just made fast friends with a tax collector – the vilest sort of Jew. Tax collectors were Jewish traitorous with the Romans and defrauders of the faithful. They were people without a nation, servicing Rome and hated by their own nation. Yet, Jesus had settled in at Matthew’s home for a meal, as if unaware of his hosts crimes against the community. What’s more, many undesirables came to that table. Dining with Jesus appears to be a free-for-all!
Eating together is an act of relationship. A shared meal is sign of trust. You must lay down your weapon to pick up your fork. Jesus came and sat down with those who were enemies of God. He offered His flesh and blood for their communion and ultimate redemption. He invited them (and us) to become friends of God. His life and death made way for all who are wiling to come to God’s table.
“If, when we were at our worst, we were put on friendly terms with God by the sacrificial death of his Son, now that we’re at our best, just think of how our lives will expand and deepen by means of His resurrection life! Now that we have actually received this amazing friendship with God, we are no longer content to simply say it in plodding prose. We sing and shout our praises to God through Jesus the Messiah!” (Romans 5:10-11 MSG)
Lord, we gather at Your table grateful. Your very invitation speaks of Your believe about who we can become. May we sit down with You today, accept the cup and break the bread. May we give deep thanks for Your prodigal generosity. We’re so glad for a King who gets cozy with crooks and riff-raff. Amen.