We recently traveled for a quick visit with our son and daughter-in-law. But this visit was even more special because other family members hopped flights and joined us. Well, going out to eat took a lot of planning and coordination with a large group, but it was always important to find a place that could accommodate our crew around one table.
You know, when we gather around a table, especially one filled with good food and familiar faces, there’s something sacred that happens. Walls come down, stories come out, and laughter fills the air. It’s not just about the great food; it’s about the connection. And maybe that’s what Jesus was getting at in John 17:20–26 when He prayed that we’d all be one. Not just close, but deeply united—like family.
That kind of unity doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention. It means choosing to pull up another chair instead of putting up a fence. It means making space for people who don’t look, think, or worship exactly like us. And honestly, isn’t that what the best tables are made of? A little bit of everything. A little bit of everyone.
Churches and communities have beautiful opportunities. Instead of guarding what’s “ours,” we can share what’s been freely given—grace, love, belonging. We can be the kind of people who say, “Come on in, there’s room for you.” Because when we build bigger tables, we don’t just feed bodies—we nourish souls.
So not just this Sunday, but every day, maybe the invitation is simple: Let’s be people who build bigger tables. Let’s be people who listen, who welcome, who love wide and deep. Because when we do, we’re living out Jesus’ prayer—and that’s something worth celebrating.
Reflection: Jesus prayed for unity—not just among His disciples, but for all who would come to believe. That kind of unity calls us to build bigger tables, not higher walls. When we make space for others, we reflect the heart of God and create communities where love leads, and everyone belongs.