After a reading of Philippians 4:4-9, Pat, one of Oakhaven's elders, uses the imagery of the first Thanksgiving - new beginnings, new friendships, contrasting cultures side by side at the table - in which differences are set aside in order to gratefully share in the table.
When we disagree and we can’t communicate, we "divide" the table. The table gets broken. Communication ceases, and it becomes “us” and “them.” When it becomes “us” and “them,” we all lose. The ironic thing about fighting is that both sides are trying to accomplish the same thing.
We forget what God promises us: peace beyond our understanding. So often, the peace we seek fits well in our small box of understanding. Proverbs 3:1-6
When we as Christians divide tables, we silence the Gospel. The table is supposed to be a safe place, a place where we can talk about our differences, and celebrate the things we have in common. We may not always agree on smaller things, but the one thing we can always agree on is that we are in desperate need of a Savior, and His name is Jesus Christ. He sat at the table with those deemed “unworthy” by religious leaders: Mark 2:13-17, Luke 19:1-10
Paul uses his ability to sit at table with just about anyone in order to form relationship through which to share the good news of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. We have to remember that Jesus is the one who built the table, built it out of His cross. Everyone is invited to the table. Jesus says so.
To investigate this most important of stories further, go here.