The Welcoming Table
We took a trip over to Edinburgh last night, to visit a Vietnamese Restaurant, Pho.
Unlike many other restaurants, 98% of the menu is gluten and dairy free.
The welcome was warm, and friendly with excellent service too. 
So, for those who have any kind of allergies or intolerances, there were no difficult conversations to navigate about what you can or can’t eat.
Anyone who lives with allergies or food intolerances will know the quiet strain that comes with eating out, the apologetic tone and the constant awareness of what could go wrong.
None of this requesting something special or feeling like an exception for anybody at our table, or any other for that matter.
The menu had removed the worry, with a wonderful choice of dishes, and desserts that were delicious.
You simply sit down, and the menu meets you where you are.
Gospel Reflections
Reflecting this morning, the whole experience reminded me about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Saviour created a “menu” that already fits all of us.
Including our struggles, our weaknesses, our limitations and our deepest needs.
We don’t have to apologise for who we are or explain why we fall short.
We don’t have to ask for special accommodations.
In His gospel, the table is already set in a way that welcomes every soul, exactly as they are.
His table is set with grace, mercy, healing and hope.
It is a place where every soul, with all of their fears, flaws, questions and longings will find something nourishing, prepared precisely just for them.
We don’t need to explain why we’re struggling or ask for a separate option on the side.
The meal has already been prepared, the chair is already pulled out, and the welcome is already extended.
All He asks is that we come, just as we are and let Him feed our souls.
The Saviour simply says… “Come unto me…” Matthew 11:28
Come and worship with us this morning at your local service of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
What part of His gospel “menu” can bring you the most comfort today?
