Dear Redeemer Family,
During the season of Epiphany, the church around the world and throughout history gives her attention to the way in which Jesus is revealed to be the light of the world. Therefore, during this time, it is customary for us to read from the Gospel accounts and see how, in the ministry of Jesus, He uncovers His identity as the long-awaited Messiah.
To that end, over the past few years, we have examined the ministry of Jesus from a variety of angles. We’ve looked at how Jesus was:
Revealed in His Stories - 2019
Revealed in His Questions - 2020
Revealed in His Miracles - 2021
This year, we will see how Christ is Revealed in His Hospitality. Each week we will read a text from the Gospel of Luke where Jesus shares a meal with someone. We will see how the ordinariness of meals was so often the context for Jesus’ ministry. I have found this both convicting and encouraging as I contemplate what shape my own ministry should take.
I find it convicting, because I usually think that, in order for me to be an effective minister of the Gospel, I need to craft extraordinary experiences for other people. The table ministry of Jesus reminds me that, more often than not, transformation takes place right in the midst of life-as-usual.
I find it encouraging for the very same reason! I have a kitchen table. It may very well be the most important tool our family has for ministry.
Ah, and you have a kitchen table as well don’t you? It may very well be the most important tool you own for sharing the love of Christ with others.
Right now, there are 21 households that are hosting Small Groups. You are opening your doors and your tables to share the welcome and hospitality of Jesus with others. It costs you time, money, energy, emotion, health, and much more. It costs you! And yet, it is a tremendous blessing to the people you welcome.
Our little parish continues to grow. There are many new people who want to make Redeemer their home. They want to come to someone’s table and experience warmth, friendship, care, and love.
By my estimate, we need close to 30 Small Groups, nine more than we have right now, if everyone is to make their way to someone’s table. So, one question for you to ask yourself (if you dare) during this Epiphany season is, “How might the Lord Jesus want to use my kitchen table to show hospitality to others?”
Redeemer Family, I absolutely love the way you show the hospitality of Christ to each other. Well done!
Let’s continue to find wise and wonderful ways to invite new people to our tables.
In the Father’s love,
artwork: Eric Feather, Christ Feeding the 5000
