As this GemLight was being written it was that time of the year, at least in much of North America, when many families gather together and celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and other holidays. Whether far or near, numerous folks travel to their loved ones to spend time with them and enjoy meals together.

But then I am mindful of those who do not have this pleasure, that live alone, are homeless, or have unhappy experiences when they do gather with relatives. My thoughts continue further as I think of the billions around the world who might not have things as well as I do.

Whether we are in abundance, in need, or somewhere in between a comment made by a man who, along with others, was at dinner with Christ is true (Luke 14:15): "Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God." While the account in Luke continues with Jesus giving those present an important lesson in eternal values, the man's statement was correct.

In His teaching Jesus then brought forth the fact we need to make time for God and His kingdom. Excuses will not do when we pass from this life. Those that do surrender unreservedly to Christ become part of that kingdom now and if they remain in Christ they will be part of it forever. Revelation 19 speaks of the marriage supper of the Lamb and most Christians feel this will be a great feast that will include believers throughout all the ages of time.

Nonetheless, in the present moment we are here and whether you are with relatives or not in the coming weeks, you and I can always be in the presence of Christ if we so choose. Also, if we are committed to Christ, we belong to a great family of believers with multitudes of brothers and sisters.

This is always a great comfort that even though our own families might forsake us, Christ does not, and we have spiritual kin through the blood of Christ. However, we must be truly committed to Christ for this blessing. If you are not, I invite you to go to Him with sincere prayer, asking Christ to forgive you of your sins, and asking Him to live within you. You can then sit at His table and enjoy the Bread of Life.