Make room at the Table

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all thse virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15
God want us to make room for more people at his table. Be compassionate to others, inviting those no one else will talk to.
How did Jesus make room?
He was compassionate. Matt 9:36
He never judged others. Matt 7:1
He faced those that hurt others. Matt 12:34
He stuck up for the underdog. Matt 19

What table are you sitting at?
Table of trouble. Ps. 23:5
Table of test. Gen 43
Table of forgiviness. 2 Sam. 9
Table of Thanksgiving. John 12

Marths cooked
Lazarus sat
It was Mary that was thankful

If you are going to sit--- at least be thankful.

This was our sermon the week before Thanksgiving. When holidays come around, some start thinking about the less fortunate, other think of only themselves. Everyone goes through hard times, if you are one of thse who hasn't, remember life wasn't meant to be easy all the time. We need to remember those who are doing without everyday. The kids that go to bed everynight hungry.
When you are out shopping this christmas season. Pick up something for a child that will not get anything, and remember they also need to eat. If you can afford it, buy a bag of groceries for the family. You don't have to get the most wanted items, or name brand foods. Buy a little boy a football, or model car. Buy a little girl a baby doll, barbie, or play makeup. Talk to the store manager, he/she may give you a discount on groceries.
I'm not just advocating this. I will be buying 4 gifts for children this year, and a meal for 1 family. My husband drives the church bus, and most of the children he picks up come from poor families. One of those families will get a 5lb ham, potatoes, stuffing, green beans, yams, rolls and all the extras to complete the meal. I will blog on how that goes.