“Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” (Hebrews 13:3, NIV)
I do not believe it to be a coincidence that the writer of the book of Hebrews encourages us to be hospitable (verse 2) immediately before encouraging us to be sympathetic (verse 3). One virtue compliments the other.
If you are unsure how to extend hospitality, put yourself in the other person’s place, and you’ll never be far from the mark. To meet the need of someone who is suffering, allow yourself to get close enough to the need at hand and the Holy Spirit will inform your speech and guide your hands.
Prison and maltreatment are two states where a person is prone to being forgotten. As disciples of Jesus, we are led to people in such places to provide hope and healing. – Luther