January 1: Set Another Place at the Table

Discussion:

1. Who regularly invites you into their home for a meal?
2. How do you spend time with God each day? 
3. Did you make any spiritual resolutions for the new year?

Reading:  Ecclesiastes 3:17


Reflection:
When I was a bachelor, I had to learn how to cook for myself.  I remember kidding with my mother that growing up, I always thought she was very talented in the kitchen.  But, once I started cooking for myself, I learned that it really wasn't that hard.  My mom shared many good recipes with me, most of which I found easy to make.  I learned my way around the kitchen and think I turned into a pretty good cook.  

Eating together is important.  I have been blessed with friends and family who invite me to dinner for a meal and fellowship.  I'm sure you have experienced the same thing.  You, too, probably have people in your life who have no problem setting another place at the table and welcoming you into their home.  It does a lot for the soul to know that you are loved by others.  

It also does a lot for the soul to see how God loves you.  And the best way to do that is by reading the Word of God.  You can learn so much about God's awesome love by turning to the stories and words of wisdom in the Bible.  One of the first songs I remember learning in Sunday School was "The B-I-B-L-E."  Yes, that's the book for me!

I encourage you to set a place for God at your table each day.  I know for many of us, our plates are extremely full with work or school, family obligations, charity activities and the like.  But we should make time for God each day, spending some quality time reading God's Word and praying for our concerns and the concerns of others.  What better way to show our love for our Creator than by welcoming God into our everyday lives, just as our loved ones welcome you into their homes for nourishment, physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

We hope you will use this "First Light" devotional blog this year and "set another place at the table for God."  May the Lord be with you on this journey!  --Chad Hershberger, Camp Mount Luther Director


Closing:  Sing the song "The B-I-B-L-E" together.  If you are using these as personal devotions, reflect on the words of the song and how you might use this song to remember to set a place at the table for God each day this year.  

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