Making Room At tHe Table

March marks three years of writing regularly on this blog, sharing thoughts, fears, hopes, dreams, and what I'm learning about Jesus. I would be remiss if I did not admit that I wanted to see this blog grow far more than it has. As the blogs of friends around me have grown or as others start new blogs and instantly have a substantial audience, it is easy to fall into the temptation to covet the talents that God has given them and to forget the talent the Lord has entrusted to me. I have fallen into this temptation many times, but repentance has allowed the Lord to show me that there is room at the table. 

​When I think about a table, I think about meals spent discussing ideas, fellowshipping, and learning from each other. I think of times spent laughing, crying, empathizing, and dreaming together. In many ways this is how I also view a blogging community. It's coming to the table, sharing ideas, learning from each other, and enjoying the fact that we are not alone. 

Starting this blog was a mustard seed that was planted in faith, but my hope for it is that it would encourage others, that it would be a place for community and discussion. A way for me to love and care for others through my writing, to write for others, not merely for myself. This is my seat at the table, but my prayer is that there will be more that come to the table, to be a part of the family. (Blogging really is a community thing).

So for the friends around me beginning new blogs and planting mustard seeds of faith, my hope is that you would view your blog as a seat at the table, engage with other bloggers, and share the things that the Lord has given you to offer to the conversation. Don't worry about getting it perfect, saying precisely the right thing, growing a large crowd, making your blog look as attractive as possible, or trying to self-market. You have a welcomed seat at the table. Come, enjoy, and share (and please bring hummus). 

If you've ever considered starting a blog or have one already or just enjoy reading about blogging, here are some reads that you might enjoy:

Is Blogging Dead from Lore Ferguson Wilbert at Sayable.net

The HopeWriter's Podcast from a number of bloggers on how to write and blog without losing your soul. 

What I Hate About Blogging from Tim Challies. I agree with a lot of what he says in this article. There definitely challenges to blogging. 

Enjoy, friends!