The answer is: Jesus

Matt 11:19

In Matthew 11:19, we find Jesus labeled as a “glutton and a drunkard,” a rather striking accusation considering His role as a spiritual leader. This criticism comes from His contemporaries who probably can’t wrap their heads around the kind of fellowship Jesus had, often sharing meals and enjoying good drink with people from all walks of life. It's fascinating to note that the people of ancient Jewish society placed a high value on hospitality and community, so Jesus wasn't just kicking back; He was engaging deeply with others, breaking societal norms and highlight the importance of inclusion.

This title was tossed at Him in stark contrast to John the Baptist, who lived a more ascetic lifestyle. While John abstained, wearing humble clothing and promoting fasting, Jesus thrived in community celebrations. Interestingly, the rich tapestry of biblical food and drink imagery serves themes of joy and relationships central to Jesus’ message. Jesus attending feasts, like at the Wedding at Cana where he transforms water into wine, shows us that joy and abundance were essential parts of His ministry.

Now let’s hop over to the Old Testament for a moment—we see echoes of wisdom literature where feasting represents knowledge and understanding. In Proverbs, there’s mention of “eating and drinking in the joyful company.” Thus, the call to community dinner table closeness is timeless. It invites everyone, glutton or teetotaler, to explore a life characterized by connection, empathy, and generosity. Such encounters teach us much about acceptance and genuine relationships.