Open Your Table
Written by Russ Johnson
Somewhere along the way…
The good news of Jesus was hijacked. Grace got a “but.” Faith became a treadmill. Growth was tied to sermons—sold as the key to transformation if we just keep listening.
And yet, here we are—more informed than ever but just as anxious, tired, and unsure of what to do outside a church model Jesus never offered (or told us to create in His name).
So, in the name of setting faith free, let’s talk about something different: tables where human connection and communion are central.
Here’s How It Works:
1. Connection (Without Pretense)
Find some people. Not the “perfect” ones. Not the ones still hyped on religious performance. Not the ones looking for a better church service.
Just people who want the life Jesus offers instead of the religion peddled in His name.
They don’t have to believe all the same things. They just have to be willing to show up and be human with you.
And yes, they can be your spouse, or your children at home.
2. Communion (Without Stages)
Instead of preaching sermons, Jesus went to parties at everyday houses.
So eat. Drink. Laugh. Share stories of how grace was found in real life. Break bread, raise a glass, and toast to the God that doesn’t flinch at our failures.
No stage. No pressure to perform. No spotlight or spiritual hype. Just a table full of nobodies Jesus already called His own.
Wait… What About Teaching?
Great question. Teaching matters: it’s how we learn to see Jesus for who He is and what life is about through Him.
But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be crammed into a gathering.
For those looking to build a foundation in faith, another system isn’t the answer, they need a place to start. That’s why we created All A Lark, This Is Not That, and other Resources that are accessible anytime, from anywhere.
So, as you listen and see where someone is in their journey, point them to the resource that meets them there—and follow up as the conversation continues.
Yeah… But What About Discipleship?
It doesn’t happen by downloading more information. It happens by practicing faith in real life. And that grows through ongoing, open-ended conversations with a friend—or a few friends.
That’s how Jesus did it. He walked with people, and over time, those conversations helped them move from simply knowing what was true to actually trusting it.
Seeing this takes the pressure off. Hosts don’t have to prepare a lesson or lead a study in a space designed for human connection and communion. Your role isn’t to perform—it’s simply to open the table and make space for honest conversation.
Could It Really Be That Simple?
Yep. Just some food and drink—no programs, just people.
And the best part? All you really need is a place, a time, and a quick note about where, when, and what to bring. If you’re starting with your family at home, you already have the place.
So grab a few friends, share the details, pour some drinks, maybe have everyone bring something to eat—and let grace do what grace does best.
If it helps, you can kick things off by reading one of the Lark Parables and simply see where the conversation goes.
Still unsure?
Reach out at russ@larksite.com. Seriously. I love conversations, and I’ll always make time.