In Jesus’ time, as they do today, meals reinforced and cemented relationships. Each invitation accepted meant a reciprocal invitation must be extended at a later date. Some hosts ranked guests according to their social status and even served different qualities and quantities of food accordingly. But Jesus turns the conventions on their head and confirms that God's reign is an open table - where all people are invited and there is enough for all.
~~~
The church is in a time of flux. Changes are happening very quickly. Once at the center of society, the church is, in many places, moving to the edges. Moving from rule makers, with the ear of governments, it is no longer in the place of power and influence. Perhaps the church is rediscovering what it means to be poor, outcast, no longer invited to the choice seats at the table.
~~~
What might such a change of place mean for you? Our congregation? Our community?