Healing Empty Chairs at the Table
Have you ever noticed the empty chairs at the table in your life? Whether it’s your dinner table or the family of God, every empty seat represents someone who hasn’t yet found their place in God’s story. In John 1:35-46, we see a compelling picture of what it means to invite others into the presence of Jesus. Andrew, after encountering Jesus, immediately went to find his brother Simon and brought him to the Savior. That’s the power of an invitation—it fills an empty seat with someone who matters deeply to God.Recognizing the Empty Chairs at the Table
Empty chairs at the table are more than just empty spaces—they’re missed opportunities. They represent friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers who have yet to hear or respond to the Gospel. Romans 10:14-15 (NLT) reminds us that people cannot believe unless someone tells them. As followers of Jesus, we’re the ones who must extend the invitation.Extending the Invitation
Just like Andrew in John 1, we are called to invite others to “come and see.” Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply offer a genuine, no-pressure invitation. Whether it’s to church, to a life group, or into a conversation about faith, that invite can change everything. There’s always room for one more. Let’s not ignore the empty chairs at the table when we know someone who’s searching for freedom, forgiveness, or community.What Empty Chairs Teach Us
Each empty chair at the table reminds us that God’s Kingdom isn’t full yet. Luke 14:23 (NLT) says, “Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.” Our role is to be active participants in this mission—not passive observers.Turning Awareness into Action
It’s not enough to recognize empty chairs at the table; we must act. Think of one person who needs to experience Jesus. Write their name down. Pray for them. Invite them. Follow up. Be like Andrew and go find your Simon. 2 Peter 3:9 (NLT) reminds us that God doesn’t want anyone to perish but wants everyone to repent. Your simple step of obedience could be the spark that leads to life transformation.Every Chair Matters
Empty chairs at the table are a visual reminder that someone is missing. Let’s not get too comfortable enjoying the presence of Jesus that we forget others still need to meet Him. Let’s commit to being inviters, encouragers, and bringers. Because every chair filled means a soul reached, a life changed, and eternity impacted.Watch the full message here: Who is Missing from the Table?
