When The Table Got Flipped...

​Remember when getting to sit at the “big table” felt like you finally made it? 

Palm Sunday reminds us of the day Jesus walked into the temple and flipped the “big tables.” Why?
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Because "the adults in the room" were missing the heart of God. 

The place that was meant for prayer, for seeking God, for outsiders to come and learn the truth about the One True God had turned more like a crowded farmers market. Full of noise, distraction, and bartering to make a buck. People were being pushed away from the Lord in the very place designed to draw them close. 

And Jesus wasn't going to stand for it. “My house will be called a house of prayer.” 

That moment wasn’t just about then for it speaks to us now.  Because today, you and I are God’s dwelling place (1 Corinthians 3:16). We have been brought near to the Lord so that we may in turn might make His presence shine on them.

How you might ask? 

• We carry His gentleness. When life squeezes us, what comes out? Jesus came in humility and His Spirit produces that same gentleness in us.(Gal. 5:23) 
• We meet real needs.  Jesus didn’t ignore the hurting, He moved toward them. Those in pain that day found the grace and favor of God. Not judgement for not having it all together. Who around you needs to experience the love of Christ this week?
• We stand for truth.  Jesus confronted what was wrong. Not harshly for the sake of harshness, but courageously, with truth and purpose. People need hope more than ever. Be that person!

People are still looking for a spot at the table. It may be you, or someone you know. Jesus wants to remove every obstacle to you sitting with Him at His banquet table. Ask yourself "who do I know that needs a seat at the table?" 

👉 Join us this Sunday at StoneBridge, and don’t come alone. Invite someone join you. As we heard from Ian on Sunday, someone invited he and Kari to our Easter service16 years ago, and their journey with Jesus has never been the same.

Grace & Peace,
Pastor Mike 

PS- Also Shannon has begun the work of remodeling our Kids preschool room. It's looking good!

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