Hospitality – Hebrews 13:2

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.

His Majesty, King Jesus, left His throne at the right hand of the Father in heaven to come to earth, not to take up a vast kingdom and establish Himself with the privileges of power and wealth, not to have others serve Him, but to serve.[1]  He, who could have had a mighty entourage of angels providing for His comfort and entertainment, knelt before His disciples and washed their feet.[2]  When He saw the hunger of the people, though He had planned a much-needed respite with His disciples, He did not send the crowd away.  Rather, He gave the people bread.[3]

Can we, who desire to emulate Christ, fail to do likewise?  May it never be!  May we take on the humility of a servant, and welcome others into our homes for fellowship, refreshment, and rest.  In abundant hospitality and sincere generosity, may we receive our guests as if they were angels visiting from heaven or even Jesus Himself[4]

For in serving with joy, without grumbling or complaint, we show that our love runs deep and that our eagerness to be good stewards of the manifold grace of God rings true.[5]  For who among us can share what we have not first received from God’s hand?  Whether we have affluence or bare sufficiency, the Spirit of God teaches us that when we open our homes in Christian charity, trusting in the Lord’s provision and following His leading in obedience, our shelves will never be bare.[6]

In His compassion, Christ could not send away the hungry multitudes without feeding them; therefore, if we desire to be like Him, we will also be incapable of withholding hospitality when we have the occasion to offer it.  In the same manner as Jesus broke bread with the mighty and the weak alike, so should we treasure the opportunities He gives us to share a meal with others, especially in our own homes.

Fling open your doors and invite friends, neighbors, and strangers to enjoy eating and fellowshipping with you.  Rejoice in the privilege of welcoming them in to dine, remembering that as you serve them, you are serving Christ.  Delight in knowing that in extending hospitality, a three-fold blessing will rain down on your head as you take pleasure in your guests, gain the joy that comes from obedience and service to God, and receive a rich reward from your heavenly Father.[7]

[1] Mark 10:45

[2] John 13:5-12

[3] Mark 6:31-41

[4] Romans 12:9-13

[5] 1 Peter 4:8-10

[6] Luke 9:13-17

[7] Matthew 10:40-42