Ordering for the Table

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)

When Janice and I go out to dinner with friends, I’ve noticed something about myself. If we’re with our vegetarian friend—who happily eats cheese and shellfish but avoids meat—I won’t order a cheeseburger. I save that for meals with my carnivore friends.

Without even thinking about it, I tend to choose something that aligns with the person I’m with. It’s not about pretending or restricting myself; it’s simply a small way of honoring the person across the table.

Meals have a way of shaping our interactions. They can draw us together, or—when preferences or traditions collide—they can highlight our differences. And that tension isn’t new.

The early church wrestled with similar questions around food. Many of the first believers still followed the dietary laws they had grown up with. As the Gospel spread and communities became more diverse, disagreements arose about what could or should be eaten.

Paul addressed these tensions in his letter to the Corinthians, urging believers not to let food—or any preference—become a stumbling block. What mattered most, he reminded them, was glorifying God in all things.

We see this same spirit in the example of the Last Supper. Jesus gathered His disciples around a simple table, first washing their feet and teaching them about love, service, and humility. In the meal they shared—the bread and the cup—we remember His sacrifice and hear again His command to love one another as He has loved us.

Across the wider Christian tradition, Communion is understood as a celebration of Christ’s presence and a call to unity. When we receive the bread and cup, we proclaim not only Christ’s sacrifice but also our shared identity as members of His body.

It’s easy for us today to let small disagreements grow into larger divides—whether over preferences, opinions, or generational differences. Social media can amplify those divides. Cultural habits can entrench them. And while there are moments when we must stand firm on matters of justice or truth, many of the things that separate us are not essential.

Paul invites us to keep our eyes on the bigger picture: unity in Christ. Jesus invites us to follow His example at the table—where love, humility, and service shine brightest.

Through shared meals, small acts of kindness, and intentional fellowship, we can reflect the glory of God and celebrate what unites us as His people.

Holy God, you gather us at many tables—some filled with food, others with conversation, others with quiet acts of grace. Teach us to choose what builds up rather than what divides. Free us from the need to win, to be right, or to insist on our own way.

Shape our hearts so that in every choice—what we say, what we do, even what we eat—we reflect your love. Make us one body, united in Christ, eager to serve and quick to show grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim