one more

“Always room for one more.” Ugandan Proverb
Yesterday I experienced this proverb lived out. We were invited to enjoy lunch and fellowship with a Ugandan family living in the Triangle. They prepared a great feast of African food which left us all longing for a quiet nap but so satisfied and content. The home was the perfect size for their family but adding 35 extra people created space. But of course, everyone made due, room to spare for the neighbors across the street. All were welcome, no one was uncomfortable, and everyone found nourishment of body and soul. Always room for one more.

What a profound statement about for stretching and growth.
Always room for one more mile…one more thanksgiving…one more push-up…one more song of prayer.

Had Mary heard this phrase at the first Christmas, Jesus wouldn’t have been born in such humble settings. Thankfully Jesus lived by this rule not begrudging the inn keeper from his birth. “Always room for one more in the Kingdom. Always room for one more in my palace, my family, my arms, my grace,” Jesus might have said.

At this time we often think of family and friends coming to fill houses. Somehow there’s always room for one more guest, present under the tree, warm, tasty dish on the table. I pray that the spirit of one more goes beyond the physical and emotional well being. I hope one more touch of grace leads one more person to Christ. Make room for one more in your heart if Jesus isn’t there. Help others make room because there is always room. We’re made with the space just like a Ugandan family offering their home, always welcoming one more. There's room.