Today is…

a good day to be hospitable.

“Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 NIV

When we invite people into our home for a party or a celebration of some kind, we want everything to be perfect. We want the house to be clean, the food to be tasty and served in an attractive and appetizing manner, and we generally want our guests to feel welcome and have a good time.

For social gatherings, this type of hospitality is fine. That is why we call it entertaining, since that is exactly what we are doing.

The hospitality of which Paul wrote in his letter to the Romans is of a spiritual nature and, as such, its requirements are a little different. There are no theatrics and there is no show. We can be hospitable to fellow Christians and not worry that all of the children’s toys are picked up and put away. When we open our doors and extend our Christian hospitality to our friends, fellow members of our church, or even neighbors, hospitality is about being ready to focus on another person’s needs, problems and issues.

Showing spiritual hospitality to another human being, is the same as being hospitable to Jesus Christ, and our genuine warmth and welcoming nature will stand out and be remembered when we stand before Him in final judgment.

Jesus Himself said, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40 NIV).

And Isaiah tells us that God wants us to “Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help.” (Isaiah 58:7 NLT).

Remember that Christian hospitality is not just about opening our homes to those in need.

It is also about opening our hearts as well.

*******

Taken from “TODAY IS….A Gift From God”, (C) 2013 Tony Casson