I am so excited about the success of Come to the Table, co-written by myself and Benita Long. The idea for this book, which celebrates the relationship between food and faith, emerged from conversations about the shocking lack of Christian literature which celebrates hospitality.
Hospitality is such a vital and yet forgotten part of our Christian witness. We live in such a busy world that most people have gotten away from the gift of hospitality. Many of the accounts of Jesus’ ministry, as recorded in the Gospels, center around meals shared in the intimate setting of people’s homes. I remember a seminary professor of mine saying, “Jesus never turned down an invitation to dinner.” This habit of Jesus is not only an example for us on how to witness, but also a picture of our Lord’s desire to have an intimate relationship with us and to shower us with the abundance of his grace and blessings.
I was honored to partner with three gracious Southern ladies in creating this lifestyle book: Benita Long, and two of her longtime friends, Susan Wilson and Ann Mitchell. These ladies just ooze hospitality! Come to the Table combines writing by Benita and myself with recipes from Ann, a former caterer, and styling from Susan. I also served as theological consultant for the Scriptures that are interwoven throughout the 60-plus recipes.
The work has the feel of a coffee-table book that invites readers to leisurely browse through again and again. Many of the recipes are Southern classics or family favorites. Some were inspired by Bible verses. I hope you will participate in one of our upcoming Gala Events being planned to celebrate joy and hospitality. The dates and locations for these events are listed under our Festival and Events page.
I also encourage you to consider giving this unique book as a gift this year. Not only is it a beautiful gift, but it is an unconventional way to share the Gospel with those who would not otherwise pick up a Christian book. Copies can be purchased by calling our office.
We live in a beautiful, abundant world. I pray that you will celebrate the bounty God has given us and make meal special.
Come to the Table in the news
