Pull Up a Chair

Editorial by Marcellus T. Robinson, president of the Columbia Union Conference

Growing up in a large family, my parents always taught us that, although we were poor economically, we were rich in love. Therefore, God always provided enough for us to feed someone else. So, without fail, we always set out an extra plate at the table, expecting that somebody would knock on our door in need of a meal.

His earthly ministry, Jesus did far more than teach and preach—He intentionally invested in people. One of His most recognizable patterns was gathering around a table, where shared meals became some of His most powerful moments of connection and fellowship.

The book of Luke, alone, mentions several homes where Jesus shared food and friendship:

■ The Home of Levi (Matthew): After accepting Jesus’ call, Levi hosted a great banquet for Him and His disciples (Luke 5:29).

■ The Home of Simon the Pharisee: During a meal, a sinful woman anointed Jesus’ feet and experienced His forgiveness and grace (Luke 7:36–50).

■ The Home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus: Jesus frequently visited this family in Bethany, where He found hospitality and rest (Luke 10:38–42).

■ The Home of Zacchaeus: Jesus invited Himself to Zacchaeus’ house, bringing salvation and transformation to his family (Luke 19:1–10).

■ The Upper Room in Jerusalem: This is where Jesus celebrated the Last Supper with His disciples (Luke 22:7–20).

These meals were far more than social gatherings. Around the table, Jesus taught lessons about forgiveness, grace, inclusion, compassion and the kingdom of God.

The early church followed the same example: “Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart” (Acts 2:46–47, NASB).

During the 29th Columbia Union Conference Constituency Meeting, we announced the 2026 Share Your Table initiative (featured on page 7). It follows the example of Jesus and the early church—encouraging members to open their homes and share meals with their friends and community. Away from the noise of screens and schedules, tables become sacred spaces where the richest feast of all is shared: the Bread of Life.

To help bring this vision to life, the Columbia Union team has designed a special prayer apron bearing the simple yet inviting question: “How Can I Pray for You Today?”—a gentle prompt that can transform an ordinary meal into an opportunity for prayer and connection, because sometimes a simple act of hospitality is all it takes to open the door to someone’s first encounter with Jesus.