Lucas Leibforth

A Call to Christian Community

In a world that often encourages isolation and division, the call of Christ stands in stark contrast: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). This isn’t a vague suggestion or a sentimental tagline; it’s a command that reflects the very heart of God. But how do we live it out in a practical, tangible way? By building longer tables, not taller fences.

The Posture of the Table

Throughout Scripture, the table is a symbol of invitation, fellowship, and belonging. Jesus constantly shared meals with people from all walks of life—tax collectors, sinners, Pharisees, and disciples. The table wasn’t about exclusivity; it was about radical inclusivity. It wasn’t about protecting personal space but extending grace-filled connection.

When we build taller fences, we’re saying, “This is mine; keep out.” But when we build longer tables, we’re saying, “There’s room for you here.” This shift isn’t just about physical spaces; it’s about the posture of our hearts. Are we creating barriers to keep people at a distance, or are we intentionally making space for others to feel seen, known, and loved?

Welcoming Without Affirming

It’s important to make a distinction between welcoming someone and affirming everything about their life. Jesus modeled this perfectly—He welcomed sinners to His table, but He didn’t shy away from calling them to repentance and transformation. Welcoming someone means offering them love, dignity, and a seat at the table, regardless of their background or beliefs. Affirming someone, however, implies agreement with or endorsement of their choices and behaviors.

As Christians, we are called to welcome others as Christ has welcomed us (Romans 15:7). This means creating spaces of grace where people can encounter the transformative love of Jesus. True love doesn’t compromise truth, but it also doesn’t build fences to keep people out.

Loving Our Neighbors Starts Here

Loving our neighbors means moving beyond surface-level gestures and stepping into authentic community. It’s not enough to wave at the family next door or exchange polite nods with the coworker down the hall. Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) reminds us that loving our neighbors requires action, compassion, and sacrifice.

Here are three ways to start building longer tables in your life:

1. Practice Radical Hospitality Hospitality isn’t about having the perfect home or gourmet meals; it’s about creating a space where people feel welcome. Open your home, your coffee table, or even your lunch break to someone who might need encouragement. Ask thoughtful questions, listen well, and let them know they belong.
2. Embrace Diversity One of the most beautiful aspects of the Kingdom of God is its diversity. Revelation 7:9 paints a picture of every nation, tribe, people, and language worshiping together. Let’s reflect that here and now by intentionally inviting people who are different from us into our lives. Different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our understanding of God and deepen our empathy.
3. Live Open-Handedly Building longer tables requires a willingness to share—our time, our resources, and our lives. It means choosing generosity over self-preservation. When we trust God as our provider, we’re freed to live open-handedly, knowing He will supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19).

The Great Commandment in Action

Jesus summarized the law and the prophets with two commandments: love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). These aren’t separate missions; they’re deeply intertwined. Loving our neighbors is one of the most profound ways we demonstrate our love for God.

When we build longer tables, we reflect the heart of Christ, who invites everyone to His table. We live out the gospel in a way that speaks louder than words. And we take the Great Commandment seriously, not as a burden but as a joyful privilege.

A Vision for the Church

Imagine if the Church became known as the place where everyone has a seat at the table. A place where fences fall and bridges are built. Where the lonely find community, the hurting find healing, and the lost find hope.

This is our call. To break down barriers. To extend invitations. To embody the radical love of Christ.

So, let’s pick up our tools, not to construct taller fences but to craft longer tables. Let’s create spaces where the Great Commandment isn’t just preached but lived out in every meal shared, every hand extended, and every neighbor loved.

There’s room at the table. Will you help make it longer?