Dinner

As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.

While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples.

Dinner at Matthew’s house… with tax collector and sinners. It’s always more than a meal, I’ll keep saying it again and again.

In this Lenten season, I have been reflecting on the 25 years I have been in vocational ministry. There have been a lot of teachings. Countless church activities. Global travels.

And what continues to sit central is… the meal. A meal doesn't not discriminate or judge or demand theological exams as an entrance fee.

The table is common space for holy moments.

I’ve been in Uganda, Croatia, Bosnia, Turkey, Israel, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Germany, and Hudsonville. All with their unique niche. But all held together by the sacredness of a meal.

Not everyone can travel… or preach… or build… or sing… but we all eat.

We’re all ministers. A meal is evangelism… for belonging, joy, friendship, forgiveness, grace, compassion, and…

Love.

Welcome to dinner at Matt's house.