Bootstrap demo

The Fourth Practice

Eat with them

Yes. Eat with them.

Of all the ways discipleship could be described, sharing a meal might not be the first that comes to mind.

For some, it may even seem too ordinary to matter.

Jesus discipled people at the table. He ate with those others avoided. He turned meals into moments of teaching, healing, forgiveness, and joy!

Meals do matter

This practice may feel surprising—especially in cultures where shared meals are no longer part of daily life. For many, eating has become rushed, individual, or optional. But in other places, gathering around food is still sacred.

Either way, when we slow down long enough to share a meal, without an agenda, something shifts. Walls come down. Conversation opens up. Trust begins to grow.

You don’t need to be a great cook. You don’t need to host a perfect dinner. You just need to be present. Because when Jesus is present, even a simple meal can become sacred.

Eat together. Let the table become the place where discipleship begins.

Time to eat!

An Unlikely Guest

Think of someone in your community, maybe a neighbor, coworker, or acquaintance - who wouldn't expect an invitation from you.

Choose one person you don’t know well. Invite them into a casual meal this week.

You could say: “Hey, would you want to come over for dinner this week? I'd love to hear more of your story.”

Across Cultures

Think of someone from a different cultural background. Meals can be a powerful bridge, breaking down barriers and building genuine connection.

Identify someone from another culture. Share a meal together, asking about their story and traditions.

You could say: “I’d love to learn more about your culture. Could we share a meal sometime?”

House Churches or Home Groups

Share food, share stories, share prayer. Celebrate Jesus as the honoured guest at the table.

Pause naturally during the meal, and invite everyone to intentionally acknowledge Jesus’ presence.

You could say: “Why don’t we stop and turn this meal into a simple communion—just remembering Jesus, being thankful for each other, and for what He’s done?”

Common Questions About Sharing Meals

It’s normal to wonder if you’re doing it right. These are some of the most honest questions people ask as they learn to hear God’s voice—and some gentle reminders for the journey.

What if hosting feels stressful or intimidating?

You don’t have to host perfectly. Meals aren’t about impressing, they’re about connection. Keep it simple. The most meaningful moments often happen in a casual atmosphere.

My schedule is already packed - how do I find time?

We all have to eat, don't we? You don’t need extra events. Look at the meals you already eat and see who you might naturally invite in. Even a short meal can build lasting connections.

I’m not sure what we’d even talk about.

That’s okay! Meals naturally open conversations. Start with simple questions about their day or life. Trust that God is present, guiding even ordinary chats.

What if someone doesn’t respond to my invitation?

That happens—don’t let it discourage you. Keep being open and inviting. Every invitation you extend is meaningful, regardless of the outcome.