Everybody Needs It!

“Let’s go get a coke.” “Let’s grab a burger.” “Let’s go get some pizza.” Are those suggestions always linked to hunger or are they more reflective of the desire to do something together? When someone says, “Let me buy you lunch.” is that not most often an indication they would like to discuss something while the meal is taking place? Perhaps the food is merely an excuse for getting the opportunity to talk.

Everybody needs food, but everybody also needs some companionship that provides a positive impact on the life. What a blessing to make connections where that relationship allows conversation to get to a significant level. Reading through the Gospels we find Jesus at the table with others on a number of occasions. Jesus had the ability to take a simple meal and turn it into an opportunity for needed lessons. Though these were times for the body to receive nourishment, Jesus took the opportunity to provide FOOD FOR THOUGHT.

On an occasion when Jesus was invited into the home of a Pharisee whose name was Simon, the meal’s focus was interrupted by a woman who heard Jesus was there. She slipped in and began washing Jesus’ feet with her tears, wiping them with her hair, and then anointing them with ointment from an alabaster flask. This caused Simon to wonder about Jesus because if He were in fact a prophet, He would have known this was a sinful woman touching Him. ( Luke 7:36-39) Jesus -- knowing what was going on in Simon’s mind -- took the opportunity to give Him some FOOD FOR THOUGHT.

We read. . .
“And Jesus answering said to him, ‘Simon, I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY TO YOU.’ And he answered, ‘Say it, Teacher.’” ( Luke 7:40 ESV)

Jesus went on to tell the parable of two debtors. ( Luke 7:41-42) The intent of this parable was to cause Simon to think a little deeper about the love that reveals an appreciation for forgiveness.

On another occasion Jesus offered some encouragement that began with a shared breakfast. ( John 21:9-12) This was with another Simon; Simon Peter. On this occasion Jesus drew Peter’s attention to their relationship while reaffirming He had a work for Peter to do. ( John 21:15-19) Here was a simple fish breakfast used to powerfully connect with Peter who may have still struggled with having denied his Lord three times. ( John 18:15-18, 25-27)

Being drawn together to share food for the body is also a good time for sharing FOOD FOR THOUGHT. A variety of discussions may take place over food, some of more significance than others. Since we often share meals with others significant to us, perhaps those are times to share thoughts of the greatest significance; spiritual matters of importance to life and eternity. The opportunity provided by a simple meal can become a powerful launching pad for changes in the lives of others. Just some FOOD FOR THOUGHT as we try to walk in the steps of Jesus.

Have a great day ACCEPTING OPPORTUNITIES TO DISCUSS WHAT MATTERS!
Carl

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