Psalm 23:5a - "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;"
What a concept--sitting down to eat while all around you would like to feast on you.
In the US, it's maybe hard to imagine being surrounded by enemies--or maybe it's not. City gangs could certainly provide that scenario. And in many countries, it's at the danger of your own life that you follow our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
There's a prolific writer I love--Kathi Macias--who consistently places her fictional characters in the position of needing enough faith to live for Christ in the middle of their enemies. Some are in countries where Christians are persecuted. Some are in more Christ-friendly countries but in the midst of enemies who consider faith in God stupid or worthy of punishment.
What kind of feast could God prepare for you there, in the presence of your (and his) enemies?
A feast of courage, perhaps? With side dishes of faith, hope, and love, maybe? And possibly followed by a sweet dish of forgiveness?
It could take all of the above, if ever we find ourselves surrounded by enemies. May God grant that we never find ourselves in that situation, but if we do--we will need God's sustenance, won't we?
Prayer: Lord God Almighty, we know there are no guarantees we will never be surrounded by enemies. Please grant that we might receive what we need from You when we need it there. Thank You, Hallowed Father, Blessed Redeemer and Savior, Holy Spirit of the Living God.
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