The Art of Preparation
She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.
Proverbs 9:2
When I think of feasts, I think of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, 4th of July and Labor Day meals that challenge our waist lines. We are blessed with an abundance of food that is delectably made and good friends with which to share it. Truly joyous occasions that are remembered for years to come.
These events don't just magically happen - it takes a great amount of preparation and coordination. From menu and guest selections to purchasing and prepping the food, it takes a great deal of effort that is best suited for a team vice an individual. When it all comes together, great times and wonderful memories are made!
However, compare the effort for such an event to that listed in the verse above. Rarely do we slaughter our own food or make our own wine! The effort and time required for such an event grows exponentially! And why would someone do all of this work and then go out and invite complete strangers? It doesn't seem logical! But carefully consider what is being offered - not just a memorable meal, but wisdom and knowledge. And not for a price but for free! Ludicrous? Outlandish? Unorthodox? Perhaps, but is it any different than what Jesus did for us? He freely gave what we could not afford or obtain. He came to earth not as a ruler but a servant. He saved us but didn't save himself. Yes, he portrayed the seem illogical approach as Solomon describes in this chapter as well.
What have we done to lead others to Christ? Have we expended great amounts of energy? Have we been viewed as ludicrous, outlandish or unorthodox? How well have we prepared for the memorable event of strangers? If you are like me, I work feverishly every day. Sadly, it is not in preparation for the glory of total strangers. We should focus more on the art of preparation for others than our personal goals!
Proverbs 9:2
When I think of feasts, I think of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, 4th of July and Labor Day meals that challenge our waist lines. We are blessed with an abundance of food that is delectably made and good friends with which to share it. Truly joyous occasions that are remembered for years to come.
These events don't just magically happen - it takes a great amount of preparation and coordination. From menu and guest selections to purchasing and prepping the food, it takes a great deal of effort that is best suited for a team vice an individual. When it all comes together, great times and wonderful memories are made!
However, compare the effort for such an event to that listed in the verse above. Rarely do we slaughter our own food or make our own wine! The effort and time required for such an event grows exponentially! And why would someone do all of this work and then go out and invite complete strangers? It doesn't seem logical! But carefully consider what is being offered - not just a memorable meal, but wisdom and knowledge. And not for a price but for free! Ludicrous? Outlandish? Unorthodox? Perhaps, but is it any different than what Jesus did for us? He freely gave what we could not afford or obtain. He came to earth not as a ruler but a servant. He saved us but didn't save himself. Yes, he portrayed the seem illogical approach as Solomon describes in this chapter as well.
What have we done to lead others to Christ? Have we expended great amounts of energy? Have we been viewed as ludicrous, outlandish or unorthodox? How well have we prepared for the memorable event of strangers? If you are like me, I work feverishly every day. Sadly, it is not in preparation for the glory of total strangers. We should focus more on the art of preparation for others than our personal goals!
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