Lately, while driving about town during dinner time I enjoy looking through windows at kitchen or dining room tables. Usually, I will see a few tables packed with family and friends, sharing a meal, drinks, or playing a game. It’s always a brief glimpse, so don’t get nervous. I am not pulling in their driveways, hoping to pick up some cooking tips while spying, I am just catching a brief glimpse at the faces around the table. Almost always I see a smiling face. Someone is telling a story, or joke, or simply sharing the delight of the company of those they love. I like to imagine that they are sharing grand adventures, or the telling story of how they met their spouse. I hope they are celebrating job promotions, or birthdays, or loosing teeth. I hope they enjoy sharing a meal with one another as much as I do.
During Biblical times, communion was celebrated in this way. It was not just a the bread and wine, it was a whole meal, meant to reflect on the aspect of community in Christ. I wish I could look through the windows back in those early days, and listen to the early Christians’ stories. I am glad that I can celebrate life with friends in this way, and I hope my boys grow up knowing the joy of sharing their hearts over a meal, next to a window at their table.
I hope I’m at the table.