What's the Seating Plan?

November 25, 2019

 Scripture  

When he noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host; and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, ‘Give this person your place,’ and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher’; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:7-11 NRSV)

 What’s the Seating Plan?

 Pardon the ancient history, but the power over the seating plan was driven home to me in my grade 13 Botany class.  “It’s in the book,” was the teacher’s answer to my question. My response was “It isn’t”. After he repeated the same answer, I suggested he show me where. The next day I was directed to a seat at the very back, separate from the lab desks with my very own table and chair.

 We are all jostling for attention and recognition in many ways – and some of it is unhealthy and unnecessary. Getting the bests seats was a big deal for the religious leaders of Jesus’ day and he watched with some amusement, before telling today’s small parable.

 Everybody was in the room, were getting the same meal but positioning was more important than the meal. It’s hard to accept that we are already inside the dinner, loved by the Host and being given the acceptance that is necessary to serve the needs of the world.

 I like the best seats I can get but scrambling for attention is also one of my key weaknesses. When I am at peace with my place in the world, I am better able to care and serve those who come across my path.

 A Prayer for Today

 Loving God, it seems like a smart strategy to push myself forward, but it loses in the end. Thank you that you have given me a place in your banquet hall and an opportunity to play a role in your work. I don’t know my end except it is in you, at a time and place not of my choosing. Until then let me walk toward the light and in your light, freed from jostling for attention. …. For Jesus’ sake