Pursuing hospitality

Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.   — 1 Peter 4:9

In the New Testament, hospitality is a hallmark of Christian living. It is listed as a characteristic of church leaders (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:8) and is commanded for every follower of Jesus as an expression of love (Rom. 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9). But its meaning goes deeper than being a gracious host or opening our homes to guests.

The Greek word translated “hospitality” means “love of strangers.” When Paul speaks of being “given to hospitality” (Rom. 12:13), he is calling us to pursue relationships with people who are in need. It is not an easy task.

Writer Henri Nouwen likens it to reaching out to those we meet on our way through life — people who may be estranged from their culture, country, friends, family or even from God. Nouwen writes: “Hospitality, therefore means primarily the creation of a free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend instead of an enemy. Hospitality is not to change people, but to offer them space where challenge can take place.”

Whether we inhabit a home, a college dorm, a prison cell or a military barracks, we can welcome others as a way of showing our love for them and for Christ. Hospitality is making room for people in need.       — David McCasland

Reaching our to needy people,

Showing them our love and care,

Is one way that God can use us

To bring hope to their despair. — Sper

READ: Romans 12:3-13

Hospitality can fill the emptiness of a lonely heart.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 3-4

• Galatians 6