Finding Your Seat at Jesus' Table

You ever feel like you don’t belong? Like you’re out of place, even at church? Like maybe those people just have their life figured out better than you do? If you’re nodding your head, you’re not alone. Many of us have felt that way at some point. But here’s the good news: Jesus’ table has open seats for all who come to Him in faith.

Yes, that includes you.

It’s a long story, but once my wife and I ended up at a fancy restaurant, completely underdressed and feeling out of place. The food was great, but the experience was awkward. We didn’t feel like we belonged there. Sometimes, we approach our faith the same way. We look at our own ragged hearts and think there’s no seat for us in the Kingdom of God. But let me tell you, Jesus’ table is a lot more like your grandma’s dining room table at Christmas—big, welcoming, and full of love.

The Open Invitation

In Matthew 15, we see Jesus healing the lame, the blind, the crippled, and many others. These were people who, by societal standards, didn’t belong. Yet, Jesus welcomed them, healed them, and made them feel at home. He didn’t see their outward appearance; He saw their hearts. And He’s doing the same today.

Jesus’ table is open to everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re struggling with sin, feeling lonely, or dealing with deep hurt. You are invited. You don’t have to fix yourself before coming to Him. You can come as you are, and He will meet you with compassion and grace.

A Table for All

Jesus’ ministry wasn’t just for the Jews; it was for everyone. He traveled to gentile regions, healed gentile people, and showed that His Kingdom is for all who come to Him in faith. In Matthew 15:32-39, Jesus feeds 4,000 gentile men and their families with just seven loaves and a few small fish. This miracle wasn’t just about feeding hungry people; it was a proclamation that His table is open to all, Jew and gentile alike.

The leftovers from this miracle were seven large baskets, symbolizing the seven nations of gentiles. This wasn’t just a coincidence. It was Jesus’ way of saying that these gentiles were receiving an equal share in his kingdom! Even though Jesus’ ministry was mostly to the Jews around Galilee, his kingdom would go out to all the world.

What’s Your Next Step?

So, what does this mean for you? It means you have a seat at Jesus’ table. Have we said that enough yet? You are invited to come, no matter your past or present. But it also means you have a role to play. Jesus wants His table full, and He’s asking you to invite others.

Who in your life needs to know they have a seat at Jesus’ table? Who are you praying for? Who are you spending time with and inviting to church? Jesus told His followers to “compel them to come” (Luke 14:23). Are you doing that with urgency and love?

Conclusion

The point is simple: Jesus’ table is open for all who come to Him in faith. You have a seat, and so do the people around you. This week, take a concrete step. Pray for someone who doesn’t know Jesus. Invite them to church. Share your story. Be the beggar telling other beggars where to find the good food.