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2009 Schools of Christian Mission

"Together at the Table"

For generations the table has been an important symbol for the gathered community. It is around the table that food is shared, discussions are held, decisions are made, crafts are created and board games are played.

As Christians, we are reminded of the significance of the table in Jesus’ life and ministry.
All along his journey, Jesus shared meals in the home of friends. In the temple, he overturned the tables of injustice. On the eve of his death, around the table with his disciples, he broke bread and set forth a means of grace for all who would believe.

Yet, when we gather at the table, there are contradictions. At the table, there is feast and there is famine. At the table, treaties are made and treaties are broken. At the table, hospitality is offered and hospitality is denied. At the table we gather to celebrate and we gather to grieve. At the table there is peace and there is conflict. At the table, there is hope and there is doubt.

Our human frailties and the realities of the world in which we live too often divide and exclude people at our tables. The Christ we follow calls us to a higher standard of living and loving as together we work for peace and justice for all of creation.

As the Psalmist says “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations . Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” (Psalm 90:1-2)

Though we are many, we are bound by a living God who goes before us and embraces all. In the sacred circle of life, enfolding the world and all that dwells therein, all are together at the table of God’s love.

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