At the Table of God

Sunday October 11, 2020

nineteenth Sunday after pentecost

On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine, of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined. He will swallow up death forever; and the LORD GOD will wipe away tears from all faces. Isaiah 25:6, 8a

“Come to the table.” In our daily experiences, there is no invitation that is more readily received and fully appreciated. To be at the table is to be assured of nourishment and refreshment. In Psalm 23, we are told of a table that is prepared under challenging circumstances. Yet, even there, the cup of God’s blessing overflows. Our gathering for worship and our coming to the Table of the Lord is a weekly experience of overflowing blessing filled with signs of God’s gracious presence. We rejoice that we are invited to His amazing table!

Old Testament:


Psalm:

Epistle:


Gospel:

READINGS

Isaiah 25:6–9
The Lord will bring salvation to His people

Psalm 23

Philippians 4:4–13
Encouragement for joyful Christian living

Matthew 22:1–14
The parable about the wedding feast

COLLECT

It is truly good, right, and proper that we should at all times and in all places give thanks to You, holy Lord, almighty Father, everlasting God, because Your mercy attends us all our days. Graciously You provide for all our wants of body and soul and lovingly You have invited us to come to Your Table of grace. Grant that Your Holy Spirit guard, guide, and comfort us throughout the days of our journey on earth as Your pilgrim people. Therefore with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven we laud and magnify Your glorious name, evermore praising You.