A Table

What is it about a table that has me all in a tizzy?  Yes, a table I say!  I have been obsessed lately with tables...big long banquet tables, beautiful wood tables with history and charm! You know the kind that sit underneath ancient trees in ancient gardens (cause don't we all live like that?)

Maybe it's because I strongly dislike my own kitchen table and I am on the hunt for a new one! (I really don't even want to show you a picture of it right now, it is a mess!) Or maybe it's because I am convinced that if I had a new table I would most certainly be more inspired to cook!

Maybe it's because I was just on TV talking about how to create a great "table" scape! 

But sometimes, you know what I really think?  I think my obsession with tables has to do with a deep longing in my heart.  A deep longing that was hidden in my heart before I ever was!  A longing that sets my heart towards the things of eternity. 

It's a longing to be seated at the ultimate banquet table.  A table set for me before the world ever was! A table with a place for me and a place for you.  A table where Jesus sits at this very moment.   Waiting.

  The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords is waiting for me and for you.  He waiting and longing  for the day that God will look over and give him the "nod."  The nod that says "It's Time!" The nod that says "Go get them!" And on that day, Jesus, the Lamb slain, the Lamb that will over come, will scoot back his chair with lightening speed.  And he will come for us. He will come for his bride.  He will come to take us home. 

And home we will go!  To a table.  A table adorned with splendor fit only for a King and his family. A table  set before the world ever was.

What will it look like I often wonder?  Will it be set with china?  Or better yet....an old set of beautifully worn white farmhouse dishes?  The kind with a few nicks and scrapes that speak of timeless family gatherings?  Will it sit underneath an ancient olive grove?  With twinkling lights above? Will there just be dessert or will we have to eat dinner first?

I don't know the answers to all my questions.  But this I know:  All art is but a mere replica of the original.  (I am sure someone famous said that!) And I can't wait to see the original banquet table, the table set before the world ever was!

I love a beautifully set table because it reminds me of to whom I belong.  I love tables because they so boldly foreshadow what is to be.  And I love tables for the longing they create in my heart, a longing explained only by the things of eternity.

  And the only other thing I know?  This table...this banquet fit for a King... will be a table for ALL to enjoy!



(all pics in this post are from Martha Steward Weddings)