Table of Love

When my man and I got married, he was serving as the interim pastor of the church I was raised in. Needless to say, the congregation LOVED on us like it was nobody's business! One couple in our church offered to GIVE us their dining room table and hutch. We had no furniture and and no money, so we gladly accepted their gracious gift.

They had such a wonderful testimony about this table. How they had had it for 15 years and how often it had been surrounded by bible studies and prayer meetings. How it had hosted meals for those in need as well as celebrations. It was a wonderful testimony and one that we wanted to continue with our family. 

Looking about over the 12 1/2 years that we've had this table, it has taken a beating. It has changed colors 3 times. Some of the chair rails are getting a bit loose and we've had to tighten some screws.

But this table has born witness to many wonderful times in our home.

Many, many, MANY meals. good food (most of the time!!) good laughs, reproofs, and training. Working on table manners and learning what NOT to talk about at the table. 

 

Celebrations. SO. Many. Celebrations!  Dying Easter eggs and decorating Christmas cookies! Blowing our candles and singing happy birthday!  Thanksgiving meals and Christmas Eve brunches with friends and family.  Honoring special milestones like the loss of a first tooth or getting POTTY TRAINED!!(that my friends is a milestone worth celebrating!!)

Work and play. This table has been our primary place of homeschool. My kids have learned to write their letters here, how to count money, seen science in action and memorized bible verses.  

It's the official LeGO table. Hours are spent searching for pieces and building some amazing creations.  Play-do is rolled out and mashed into the cracks. Masterpieces are painted. Even music is made!

Minds are filled with facts and truth. Songs are sung of grace and goodness. Prayers are prayed of hope and forgiveness. Books are read that give Light and Life. 

All of these pictures were taken within the last 6 months. They only give a tiny glimpse of all that has happened around this table. Of how our prayers are being answered. That this table be a place of fellowship and celebration. 

One of our favorite verses is this

"Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways.

Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house

and your sons will be like olive shoots

around your table.

Thus the man is blessed who fears the Lord

Ps. 128:1,3-4

This table continues to survive multiple moves and the hazards of young children! It bears the marks and scars of bumps along the way. And yet, it continues to lend itself to us as a place of gathering  together. Of wholeness and family. 

Where all are welcome to come and dine.

Grace and Peace,