Community: Space at the Table (11/1/2026)
Space at the Table: God's Unconditional Love and Community
In this sermon, Paul reminds us of the profound truth that lies at the heart of Christian community: God's love for us is without pause, without condition, and without hesitation. As we continue our series on church values, Paul spoke about how community isn't just about gathering together—it's about understanding that Jesus has space at the table for each of us, and there's room for those not yet part of our community.
God's Love Without Pause
Paul emphasized that God's love is instantaneous and constant. In Romans 5:8, we're reminded that "God demonstrates his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This isn't a love we earn or deserve—it's freely given before we're even aware of it. 2 Timothy 2:13 reinforces this: "If we are faithless, he remains faithful because he cannot deny who he is."
Paul challenged us to spend more time knowing ourselves as loved by God. What if the most important thing about ourselves is simply that we are loved by Him?
The Story of Zacchaeus
Paul spoke about how Jesus demonstrated this unconditional love through Zacchaeus, the despised tax collector. Jesus invited himself into Zacchaeus's life before any transformation occurred—no conditions, no requirements. It was experiencing Jesus's love and community that opened Zacchaeus's heart to repentance and generosity.
Love Recognizes Disciples
In John 13:35, Jesus says, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." Paul reminded us that Christians sometimes have a reputation for being judgmental, but when we move from a place of love—recognizing we have no superiority—we can express unconditional love to others without hesitation.
Wounded Healers
Paul spoke about how God uses us exactly as we are, wounds and all. Drawing on Henri Nouwen's concept of "wounded healers," he shared that through our healed pain, we can bring empathy and understanding to others. 1 Corinthians 1:3-5 tells us that God "comforts us in our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in affliction with the comfort which we ourselves are comforted by God."
Invitation, Not Manipulation
Paul emphasized that inviting people into our community isn't about hidden agendas or manipulation. It's about being relational and invitational, just like Jesus. We're called to move from a place of love, not judgment, offering true, meaningful friendship.
The Power of Hospitality
Paul reminded us that one of the greatest ways to invite others in is through hospitality—sharing meals, opening our homes, offering even just a cup of tea. Hebrews 13:2 encourages us: "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." 1 Peter 4:8-10 calls us to "love each other deeply" and "offer hospitality to one another without grumbling."
As Paul concluded, whatever we do—whether in word or deed—we're called to do it all in the name of Jesus (Colossians 3:17). Our worship isn't just singing; it's how we serve others, how we invite them in, and how we love people. For as Matthew 25 reminds us, whatever we do for the least of these, we do for Jesus.
