I put extra leaves in my table this week. I have guests coming over, and I wanted to make sure there is room for everyone. Throughout my life, I have learned about room at the table. My dad’s family is rather large, and for many years they have gathered at the family farm for Thanksgiving or other family gatherings. No matter the number, there is always room at the table. We’ve had to be creative over the years and add tables as the family grew, but there is always a place for everyone.
I’m reminded that there’s always room for one more at the table that God invites us to. As I have been visiting churches this past year, I have found myself observing communion on a much more frequent basis. The table does not always look the same, but the invitation is there. There is room at the table for all who will come.
Over the years, I’ve sat at a variety of tables. I’ve observed the Lord’s supper in multiple meaningful settings. Recently in Mexico, my team and I came to the table with students at Seminario del Oeste. Though we did not all share the same heart language, we shared our commitment to following Christ and all found our place at the table. I’ve sat and been served and have walked up to partake. I’ve led children through communion. I’ve observed the Lord’s Supper near the garden tomb on a Holy land trip. I’ve sat at the table with mission partners, with church family, with brothers and sisters in Christ in countries I have visited. I’ve experienced communion at a passover feast. I have been served by children in East St. Louis. I have served and been served. I’ve observed communion in a prayer room by myself and in an auditorium filled with 20,000 people at midnight on New Years Eve. The bread and cup do not always look the same….but they always represent His body and His blood.
And each time, I have found my place at the table. I am overwhelmed that Jesus personally invited me when He died on the cross for me. His body was broken and His blood was shed for me. When I let that sink in, I am simply overcome by love and gratitude for my savior. I am also humbled that there are some empty spots at the table for people who are waiting to hear that they, too, have been invited. There’s still room at the table...
