Alicia Taylor

High Tea
 
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.  They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.  And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.  -Acts 2:46-47
 
One of my dear friends is a wonderful lady named Risa.  
I have known her for many years, and a visit with Risa always leaves you wishing you could linger longer in her company.  She definitely has the gift of hospitality, and as your hostess she warmly welcomes you into her clean, cluttered, and comfortable home.
 
Risa collects teapots, and over the years she has amassed quite a collection of beautiful, unique, and even funny teapots, all of which are on display in her home.  She often invites friends to join her for tea, and when you receive such an invitation from her, you know it is an occasion not to be missed!
 
In Great Britain and other parts of the world where British culture has had an influence, people sometimes celebrate "high tea."  Served in late afternoon or early evening, "high tea" is a special occasion because the food is presented formally, turning a "snack" into a true event that gives an intentional pause to the day.  Tea time at Risa's home is always served in the tradition of "high tea."
 
Our Lord invites all to the high tea of eternal life.  There, his cup of grace is always overflowing.  He has prepared the table for us and is always ready to receive us and serve us as his own (Psalm 23:5).  Day by day, the Holy Spirit continues to send out invitations.  Day by day, the guests arrive and make themselves at home in the peace that a relationship with Jesus provides.

Prayer for Today

Lord, we give you thanks that where two or three come together in your name, you are in our midst.  Help us to practice hospitality with God's people who are in need and to invite them to sit at table with you and to be at home in the peace of Christ.  Amen.