Jan opened the door a few minutes after teaching began, hoping to slip in unnoticed. Every chair filled, she fought the urge to back out and leave. Instead, she closed her eyes, took a long, deep breath, and let it out slowly. Calmer, she opened her eyes and spotted an empty chair in the second row. She squeezed past a few ladies and settled into her spot. Two years ago, she would have tucked tail and ran, but finally she had a place. Despite all her quirks and awkwardness, this group accepted her—tattoos, piercings, and unique taste in clothes. They never shunned her for taking off her shoes mid-lesson or pressed too hard when she cried through small group. They gave her space to be herself. And for the first time ever, Jan wanted to overcome her social anxiety instead of letting it constantly keep her isolated.
Freddie felt the stares. It was like large scarlet words hung around his neck for all to see. Drug addict. Thief. Adulterer. Jesus paid for his sins on the cross, he knew that, and accepted the 
free gift of grace in his life. Christ lived in his heart; everyone noticed the changes. He gave up the drugs, alcohol, and women. He desperately desired reconciliation with his wife. Would she ever forgive him? The men’s group at the church accepted him immediately and brought him into their fold. For the first time since release from prison, he felt hope. No matter what his day was like, Freddie never missed a meeting and couldn’t wait to apply the truth from the teaching.
A Place with His People
Jan and Freddie have something in common: being seen, known, and accepted by the people of God. They didn’t receive the cold shoulder or a judgmental stare. The Body of Christ in each of these groups looked past the outside and saw a need for our Savior. They weren’t distracted by appearance or past; they welcomed each one with open arms and saved them a seat at the table.
The seat didn’t come with terms or expectations. It was a simple invitation to eat at his table—a feast of God’s words and instructions. This place is extended to anyone who desires to come, no matter how jaded their past or off-putting their appearance. Jesus died for all.
A Seat at the Table
Those who accept this invitation are as varied as the colors of the rainbow. No matter who they are, the hole inside their hearts will only be satisfied by Jesus. Mamas with social anxiety. Daddys addicted to pornography. Teenagers who have been molested. Singles without self-worth. The list goes on and on: paranoid schizophrenic, sexual offender, police officer, high-functioning autistic, chronically depressed, opioid addict, struggling waitress, serial killer, preschool teacher, abuse victim, active narcissist, prochoice lobbyist, divorced mom, aging grandmother, suicidal teen, recovering alcoholic, foreign immigrant.
The table won’t always be neat and tidy, and the company will require continual spiritual renovation throughout the years, but that’s exactly why Jesus ate with tax collectors, prostitutes, and other known sinners. He knew they needed the hope that he alone could offer.
There’s Correction at the Table
Just like visiting an older family member and joining them for a holiday meal, there will be times when more mature tablemates will show newer family members the way of the family. Respect for everyone who gathers. Love for ones that seem unlovable. Kindness toward their neighbors. Gentleness in their interactions. Forgiveness when the hurts are deep.
It’s the picture of mentoring. Older women investing in younger ladies. Teaching them how to be good moms and wives. Older men guiding younger guys. Instructing them on how to lead their homes and love their families like Christ loves his church. Confrontation. Accountability. Boundaries. Truth in love. Every word shared comes from a heart radically changed by the grace of Christ.
There’s Room at the Table
Do you feel out of place? Is your heart empty and broken?
There’s room at the table.
Are you convinced he’ll never love you? Do you feel disqualified?
There’s room at the table.
Have you been considering his invitation? Wondering if the offer is still valid?
There’s room at the table.
The chair is empty. Waiting just for you. Won’t you come to the banquet of Jesus Christ, the world’s only Savior?
There’s room at the table.
(for more on redemption: Once Upon a Time: Redemption Stories – Inspire A Fire)
Copyright Christy Bass Adams, all images from Canva
Yes! Always room at the table. Thank you, Christy.