The Table Challenge
"They ate together with glad and generous hearts." – Acts 2:46
A Six-Week Experiment in Shared Meals
In a world of rushed dinners and constant distraction, we are rediscovering a simple but powerful practice:
Eating together.
Not in a hurry.
Not on screens.
But with intention.
The early church didn’t just gather in rows — they gathered around tables. And God used those meals to form a family.
The Challenge
Once each week:
- Share one intentional meal.
- Practice the four habits on the opposite page.
- Invite at least three guests to your table.
The Four Practices
1. Be Present
Turn off TVs. Put phones away. Give your full attention.
2. Be Thankful
Begin with gratitude. Thank God for this meal, these people, and His work in your life.
3. Be Curious
Ask one or more meaningful questions:
- How are you doing, really?
- What is God teaching you?
- What are you celebrating?
- What burden are you carrying?
- How can I pray for you?
- Who else needs a chair?
4. Be Welcoming
Invite someone to your table: a friend, neighbor, someone new, or someone who cannot repay you.
Why This Matters
Spiritual formation doesn’t just happen in church services. It happens in conversations, in shared meals, and in everyday life.
One meal at a time, God forms His people into a family.
A Simple Prayer
Lord, thank You for this meal and these people. Help us to be present with one another and aware of Your presence among us. Amen.
4 Practices
- Be Present – No phones. No screens.
- Be Thankful – Give thanks to God.
- Be Curious – Ask. Listen. Share.
- Be Welcoming – Make room for others.
Conversation Starters
For Kids
- High: What was the best part of your day?
- Low: What was the hardest part?
- God: Where did you see God today?
For Adults
- Where did you see God at work this week?
- What brought you joy this week?
- What has been challenging lately?
- How can we pray for each other?
Close in prayer together.
One meal. One conversation. One step closer.