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"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33  

A few weeks ago, I had the joy of attending the bridal shower of a precious former student. It was a lovely and joyous celebration, but there was one special guest in attendance who stole everyone's heart.

As the bride began to open her gifts, she opened a set of dishes and announced that they were from her grandfather. At that announcement, Rachel’s grandpa proudly stood up from the back of the tent and announced, “Rachel, those are for when you invite me over for dinner," and everyone chuckled.

A few gifts later, Rachel opened a crock pot and announced that this gift was also from her grandfather. Without missing a beat, Grandpa stood up again and professed “Rachel, that's for when you make dinner for me!" and the laughter grew louder.

Next came a beautiful set of coffee mugs that the card also labeled “from Grandpa”. By now, Grandpa had everyone cracking up when he announced, "And those are for my coffee after the dinner!"

Finally, she unwrapped a set of glass storage containers and announced that once again, they were from Grandpa. At this point, everyone automatically turned toward the back of the tent. They were practically sitting on the edge of their seats, waiting to hear what Grandpa would say next. In true Grandpa fashion, he did not disappoint when he responded, “And Rachel, that’s so I can take home some leftovers!”

By now, the crowd erupted in laughter, but it wasn't just because Grandpa was so funny and charming. It was because his comments revealed something extremely tender and endearing. He wasn't wondering if he would be invited. He was completely confident that there would always be a place for him at his granddaughter's table. Their relationship was so close that he simply and correctly assumed that he belonged there.  

Two weeks ago, St. Matthew Lutheran Church began a sermon series entitled “Invite Jesus to Dinner’. However, Jesus doesn't simply want an occasional invitation into our lives. He desires an endearing relationship like the one Rachel has with her Grandfather. Jesus loves us so deeply that He wants to frequently be welcomed into our homes, our conversations, our joys, our struggles, and even our dinner tables. When we intentionally invite Him into our evening meals through prayer, conversation, and Scripture, we are making room for the One who longs to spend time with us each and every day.

Two weeks ago, St. Matthew sent home family devotional books to help families do just that. If you haven't had a chance to begin, there's no better time than tonight! Whether your meal lasts five minutes or fifty, these simple devotions provide a wonderful opportunity to pause, talk, laugh, pray, and remember that Jesus delights in being present with your family.

Who knows? Maybe as you gather around the table this week, you'll smile and imagine Jesus saying, "Thanks so much for inviting Me to dinner tonight! Now where are those coffee cups I gave you?"

May your table continue to be a place filled with good food, meaningful conversations, joyful laughter, and special time with Jesus!

In His Love,

Mrs. Palka