Just imagine … tables covered with the finest linens, china, crystal, and fresh flowers. The elegantly decorated room is humming with family and friends arriving for an elaborate dinner … all to honor you! Or, would you prefer a quaint table for two in a less conspicuous setting?
What is the occasion? In ancient times, meals were an expression of the bond of friendship. Between national leaders, a meal signified the overlord offering protection to his guest as treaties and covenants were formed.
Psalm 23:5 says “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Now imagine you are having that dinner with your Lord. He has prepared the table just for you and Him. Your enemies, held back by His power, may not participate. They can merely watch and regret that they had not joined in a covenant with this King, rejecting His salvation time and time again.
As you feast with your Lord and King, He lifts a small bottle of oil and anoints your head. The anointing identifies you as the honored guest. As you bow before Him, you are overwhelmed with the thought that He has also chosen you. He has a special work for you to do and as you walk with Him in obedience, your banquet cup of blessing overflows. The blessings remind you that you have done nothing to deserve this honor. His love and desire to have a relationship with you made the way for you to banquet with Him. “He has taken me to the banquet hall, and his banner over me is love” (Song of Songs 2:4).
See you next Wednesday with the last verse of the 23rd Psalm.
Pointing the Way ~ by Arrow 