This summer I (Rachel) finished reading the Lord of the Rings Trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien, a delightful work in every way. One simple account of a meal with the race of elves caused me to stop and ponder:
“Such loveliness in living thing Frodo had never seen before nor imagined in his mind: and he was both surprised and abashed to find that he had a seat at Elrond’s table among all these folk so high and fair. Though he had a suitable chair, and was raised upon several cushions, he felt very small, and rather out of place; but that feeling quickly passed.” (LoTR p. 240)
Something about this description of Frodo’s experience of sitting at table with the elves and guests at Elrond’s kingdom in Rivendell brings me to a palpable sensation of awe that will one day be at the Messianic banquet, when we feast in the presence of King Jesus, seated with guests of all statures.
I think of a family feast at which children will be given attention, rather than shuffled to the corner or given a separate table out of sight from the adults. I see former drug addicts who have become princes in the kingdom of heaven and I see those freed from prison and forgiven of their crimes given a place to feast together with the whole host of saints.
I also think of how awkward I feel when I have occasion to dine with those much poorer than myself. At other times I am invited to feast with those who have much, be it possessions or social status, and I feel small like Frodo. I have nothing to return for the special treatment or gift of hospitality. It is only for me to enjoy and be fully present to those seated around me.
This messianic banquet, when King Jesus returns and calls all to His banquet table, is a moment my soul longs for and yet fears at once. I am sure I will feel quite small, and yet maybe I will, like Frodo, quickly forget social standing as the table levels us all to the same simple need for nourishment and renewal through food and drink.”
During our week of overnight summer camp we had many a chance to break bread together with the children among whom we serve. During our daily VBS camp in the month of July we offered a cooking class and again had a chance to dine together and sample the day’s choice of recipe. (pictured above: we enjoyed “Shuba” a traditional potato/egg/hering salad)
Soon Vitali and I will journey to the States and share many meals with many different friends (See locations below). Pray for us on the journey. We look forward to sharing a meal with many of you! Interested in Sharing a meal with us? Contact us rachel.dyachenko@wordmadeflesh.com
Hope Community Church on Sunday, August 23, Newburyport, MA
Byfield Parish Church on Sunday, August 30, Georgetown, MA
Buckingham and Nottingham, PA, Sept 8-10
Wilmore, KY, Sept 11-14
Columbus, OH, Sept 16-17
All Saints Church, Wolfeboro, NH, Sept 19-22