Romans 12:9-13
Verse 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
The second part of this verse is something which is often misunderstood, even in Christian circles. Hospitality can be one of those things in life which we either love or avoid. Of course some of us have a special God-given gift for being able to open up our homes and ovens bringing joy to everyone. Others of us have trouble looking others in the eye.
Of course there are certain temperaments which are more naturally suited to showing hospitality but as we see from our key verse, it is expected from all Christians. Before we start panicking at thought of inviting people into our homes and having to fix them a meal, it is good for us to remember an open home and cupboard is only a small portion of what is being talked about here.
Yes, it may be important to open our doors and set the table but it doesn’t mean doing that is being hospitable. There is more to hospitality than just hosting some people in our home. In fact we could have people over, feed them the best food on the most expensive china and still not be hospitable. It isn’t always about what we are doing but how we are that matters.
To be truly hospitable one must have a welcoming spirit, not just kind and smiley, but be calm and inviting. Most of us wouldn’t like to spend a great deal of time with someone who is in constant motion, buzzing about the room and back again. That type of person tends to put us on edge which doesn’t allow us to relax in their presence. A person who is hospitable makes us feel at home no matter where we are.
Because of this trait of hospitality, it can be provided anywhere. It could mean seeing someone who appears uncomfortable in a situation at work or school and going to them to see if we can make them feel more comfortable. It could be a visitor at church whom we ask to see if they want to sit with someone or simply striking up a light conversation with them helping them feel welcome. It could be bringing a peaceful spirit into just about any situation which allows others to feel calmed by our presence. It is a way of loving others by bringing Christ’s peace into their space.
Making It Personal
Who is someone who you feel is hospitable? How hospitable are you? What could you learn about hospitality from the person you feel is hospitable?
Making It Personal Kids
Do you know someone who always makes people feel at ease? Do you make people feel at ease around you? What is a good way to make someone feel relaxed in a tense situation?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for Your peace and enabling us to pass it on through living hospitably. Give us loving hearts and the desire to share Your peace through hospitality. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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