Together at the Table

Together at the Table, Kingdom Values

In the world of sports, legendary rivals Larry Bird and Magic Johnson transformed their competitive relationship through an unexpected act of hospitality. During a 1985 Converse commercial shoot, Bird invited Magic to lunch, and something remarkable happened—they got to know each other beyond the basketball court. This simple meal mirrors a profound spiritual truth: hospitality has the power to break down walls and reveal our shared humanity as those bearing the image of God. Biblical hospitality goes far beyond polite entertaining. It’s a radical act of kingdom living that recognizes every person as a child of God. In Luke’s Gospel, we see Jesus exemplify this through his encounter with Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector. Despite community criticism, Jesus saw Zacchaeus’s true worth, transforming his life through a simple invitation to share a meal. Our modern world often encourages division. Social media platforms can become battlegrounds of harsh commentary and quick judgments. These realities are only amplified by the election season that we find ourselves in. We are so quick to declare each other the enemy and to attack accordingly. But the Christian calling is different. We’re invited to practice radical hospitality—to welcome “the other,” to listen before speaking, to see people through God’s eyes. What might change if we replaced online arguments with dinner conversations? What barriers could crumble if we truly practiced Jesus-style hospitality? Ask yourself: Who might you invite to your table? How can you create space for genuine connection? Where can you practice peace by welcoming those who disagree with you? Hospitality isn’t just about food or providing bedding for a weary traveler—it’s about recognizing the sacred worth of every person God brings into our path.

Dinner Table Conversations:

Adult Table Talk:

• How can we practice biblical hospitality as a form of peacemaking in our current cultural and political climate?
• In what ways might social media be preventing genuine connection, and how can we intentionally create spaces for real dialogue?

Teen Table Talk:

• How do you think Jesus would approach social media interactions differently?
• What barriers do you see in your school or community that hospitality might help break down?

Little Learners’ Table Talk:

• Can you tell me about a time you made a new friend?
• Who is someone new you could be extra nice to this week?

Caleb McCaughan, Pulpit Minister | Manchester Church of Christ – Schedule a meeting with me here!