Authenticity

Authenticity at the table

In Isaiah, we read that Jesus came to bring freedom. Mary literally experiences that, and it is life-changing. She connects with those around her. She participates in the Shabbat. She opens her home for this special meal, and although she has no idea how exactly to do that yet, she steps out. She invites people over, and Jesus spontaneously comes in.

How beautiful and pure that is. We don't read it in the Bible, but I can so imagine, as you see in the video, that this touches Jesus' heart. He sees a new Mary. A woman first rejected and disowned is now a woman taking bold steps and enjoying meeting others. She can now berealandauthenticat her own table.

Authenticity in relationships

Much has also changed for Mary in relationships. She speaks to Nicodemus without condemnation. Tells him very openly that he was not the one who brought restoration. Her response makes Nicodemus not dismissive but curious about what happened.

Mary tells Nicodemus about someone she doesn't even know yet. Hé brought the change—the Man who spontaneously joins the table and introduces himself as Jesus.

Jesus who came to bring the good news to the poor. Mary has not yet heard the good news, but she has met him in Person. That encounter gives her the space to open up to other people and totruly welcomethem, who are often as broken as herself, into her home.

Authenticity in obedience

A real encounter with Jesus always has an impact. Jesus meets Mary, she is set at liberty, and immediately afterwards obedience follows by doing what is asked of her. Keeping Shabbat and being open and hospitable to others. Perhaps not quite as it should be yet. But out of a desire to obey what is asked of you if you follow Jesus.

Take the following questions to consider:

• What is authenticity for you?
• Who is welcome at your table?
• How can you grow in obedience?

Prayer:

"Lord, I would like to be real. Will You help me do that? Lord, I want to meet You, because in an encounter with You something happens. Give me an open and perceptive heart. Amen."