Saint Athanasius Lutheran Church

Today, I reflected on how Jesus turns the tables on what it means to be honored. At the Pharisee’s banquet, people fought for the best seats, but Jesus chose the place of the outcast and welcomed a man with dropsy, healing him and giving him dignity. That is what He does for us, too. Our sin disfigures us, but Jesus opens the door, forgives us, and gives us a seat of honor at His table. In His kingdom, the last are first, the humble are lifted up, and the unworthy are made worthy. His feast is not about status but grace—a joy shared with sinners, saints, and all the company of heaven. And because He has welcomed us, we are now free to welcome and serve others with the same love.