Food, Friends & Fellowship

Last night I hosted my third IF: Table. I haven't shared here about my personal observations from these gatherings because each time I have struggled with how to put the experience into words. This time is no different. Except that, I felt compelled to give you a glimpse into what it has been like to gather women in my home, from all areas of my life, past and present, and have meaningful conversation about ourselves and our God.

When I first heard of IF: Table, I loved the idea behind it. Women being more intentional about their relationships, gathering together to empower and encourage one other, all in the name of Christ. Sounds great, doesn't it? 
While I was in love with the idea, I wasn't sure it was for me...for several reasons. I dislike cooking. I would have to clean my house. Where would my family go? Who would I invite? It would feel awkward and uncomfortable. And, the list went on.

Still, I couldn't shake that voice inside that urged me to try it. To step out in faith. To risk. So, I went into the first evening thinking, I will try this once and when it doesn't go well, I won't have to do it again. And, as I planned the event, I was pretty sure that's how it was going to go. There were last minute cancellations. I was supposed to have six ladies and I only had four. Things just weren't working out the way I had planned. 
"My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts, says the Lord. And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts are higher than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9 
The Lord worked in mighty ways that night, and in the nights to follow. He gathered the perfect groups and brought together women from all circumstances. I have ended each night knowing that God was in our midst. That he had orchestrated everything - every person, every word, every interaction. 

However, the beauty and encouragement has not been without resistance. As I walked this morning and reflected on last night's dinner, I began to doubt. I thought about my own words from the previous evening, which had felt awkward and confused. It was then that God encouraged me, You have obeyed. I will take it from here. Let it go. Trust me. Then, that became my prayer, not that I had changed the lives of any one woman, but that God would use the experience to speak into their lives. Now or in the future. 

If you are the hostess-type or even if you're like me and the thought of hosting an event like this makes you uneasy, I would encourage you to try it. Just once. Invite a few ladies over for dinner or lunch.  Download the question cards and see where the Lord leads your conversation. Even if you only do it once, it will be worth it. You won't regret the experience.