Hospitality

Two little buddies sharing supper time . . . isn't that the sweetest thing?  Dining together.  Unfortunately, one (I won't mention any names, but he's not the brown one) doesn't really like the other, so this is a rare moment.  


Isn't that what hospitality is?  Sharing a meal, or dessert, or just time in one's home with a cup of tea. Francis and Edith Schaeffer unknowingly started a worldwide ministry by the simple practice of opening their home to strangers.  As they shared simple meals and conversations, many had their deepest questions answered and gave their lives to Christ.  


Romans 12, in a grand passage on what love looks like, says this:  Love one another with brotherly affection.  Outdo one another in showing honor.  Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.  Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.  Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.  


A friend and I were talking this morning about the importance of hospitality.  Is there any better way to evangelize, encourage, teach, mentor, challenge, make friends, than in the context of one's home?  Don't you love being invited over to another's home, sitting in her presence, enjoying the fellowship?  My friend and I concurred that there is nothing like being in one another's homes, sharing conversation, babies, treats, laughter, even tears.  


Another friend offered to pray with me in one of our homes soon; she desires to be an encouragement, and that's what she came up with.  


When was the last time you had a non-family member over?  I challenge you to do it soon, and often, and cheerfully, and lavishly.  You might find that you love it.