A Seat Speaks

It’s funny how much we are creatures of habit. We sleep on the same side of the bed, relax on the same spot on the sofa, and habitually sit at the same seat at the table. This was our co-worker’s seat at the table in the teachers’ lounge. He left us this past week. To say we were shocked is an understatement. In the blink of an eye, he was gone. A painful and poignant reminder of the brevity of life. Whether or not you embrace the truth of scriptures, there is one unavoidable piece of reality that faces each of us – ‘our days are numbered’. The writer of Psalm 90 says ,” Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” One translation conveys this sober message, “Teach us to use wisely all the time we have.”

We’ll no longer hear our colleague’s booming voice or enjoy his gregarious personality. His seat is now vacated. He left his imprint on those who crossed his path. His legacy lives on in those he loved and served. This chair will undoubtedly be occupied again. If it could speak, maybe this is what it would say:

I provide for you a seat at the table. A place carved out for you to occupy and possess. No one can be you and do you with such grace and dignity. You were created with purpose and a marked destiny. This is where you belong for this season. There are days you show up when you don’t want to – I see you. Life with its twists and turns isn’t always kind. You often bear the pain and scars of well-fought battles yet you show up anyway. I hear your laughter; at times I see the tears and your moments of frustration. Nothing about you goes unnoticed. I promise to bear you up, so you’ll always have a place here at the table.

Your stories of triumph and defeat gives hope to those listening. Those who are, for whatever reason, suffering in silence. Today you just may provide the balm for their wounds and bruises. Some are bleeding helplessly on the innocent and unaware in their circle. Your kindness and words of grace may be what’s needed to stem their hemorrhaging. God still uses people to be His hands extended. He might want to use you to bring the healing today. So, take your seat at the table.

You’ve seen or heard stories of those who choose to check out of life. This will not be your story. As I stand by you today, I speak hope and strength into those dry and parched places in your heart and mind. As you meander through life, you’ll soon discover that this is not just about you. There are those who are patiently waiting for your touch- waiting for all you bring to the table. Show up and occupy. Be present. Make the number of your days count. Choose today to not leave your seat empty.

‘From Me to You”

*** Thanks for reading- In memory of W.M. aka ‘Billy’.