Most consider the table a spot to eat or do homework, but it’s so much more. Last month, we discussed how to rethink mealtime by implementing important skills. This month, we’ll examine who you could invite to your table.
Grandparents. What grandparent doesn’t want to be invited to the table with their grandkids? Extend invitations beyond the typical holiday meals and birthdays. Grandparents want one-on-one time with their grandchildren. When our kids were teenagers, we invited my in-laws to ask questions. (We forewarned them.) Our family discovered more about their spiritual journey and how they met.
Experts. Does your child want to be in the music industry? Plenty of session players, songwriters, and lighting and sound engineers live in the area. What if you invited one to your table so your son or daughter could ask questions? In his book Love Does, Bob Goffdevoted a chapter about his kids writing to world leaders requesting a meeting. Twenty-nine said yes. Don’t consider your child’s interests out of reach.
Missionaries. When a missionary is stateside, invite them to your home. Listen to their stories and ask questions. How did they know they wanted to go into missions? What is it like being a missionary? What do you enjoy most? Ask about their needs and concerns and guide a child to pray for the honored guest. Continue to connect with the missionary through social media, texting, and emails.
Unbelievers. Make your place a safe space to hang out. Provide fun games, food, and conversations. Maintain your daily rhythms, such as prayer, Bible reading, or any other activity at the table, and invite the guests to join in. Ask God for opportunities to hold spiritual conversations.
Immigrants. Invite someone from another culture to your table. Respect their traditions and ask about food restrictions. If they want to bring a dish, accept and try it. You should prepare your kids ahead of time to leave negative comments for later.
Minister. They’re busy, so you’ll want to be patient and plan. Dinner with a minister could break down barriers and allow your teenager to see them as a normal person. Take this opportunity to bless and honor your pastor.
Neighbors. After giving a new neighbor time to settle, introduce yourself and invite them over. Hear their story and find a common connection. Share with them your favorite restaurants, hiking spots, or music venues. Invite them to attend your church.
Elders. A young family at our church invited an older woman to their home. The older child recently made a picture of the woman. When she showed it to me, the lady’s eyes welled with tears. You never know what a difference a visit can make.
Who can you invite to your table?
Sally Cressman, author of The Dance of Easter, posts family conversation starters on Facebook and Instagram each Thursday.
