Why Do You Eat and Drink?

No issue raised more questions and opposition during Jesus’ life and ministry than how he ate and who he shared a table with. Luke’s gospel in particular seems to highlight this theme which we see pronouncedly in the calling of Levi (Matthew), the tax collector. Jesus is confronted by the Pharisees demanding to know why he would share a table with sinner. And he answers that he has come for the sick. The table is for gathering those who are far off to bring them near – not a comfortable party for insiders. They also challenge him on the sheer fact that his disciples eat and drink merrily – in contrast to the austerity of other disciples and their fasting. And Jesus teaches that it is right for those who are with the Bridegroom to feast!

We are a feasting people. It is also good that we fast (as Jesus says we will do when he goes away). But as those who know the Bridegroom – who both await his return and celebrate his victory – we practice rhythms of fasting and feasting. And we always use our table as Jesus used his – sharing it generously with all types of people. Your table is not a private retreat; it is a battlefield hospital.