Tag Archives: hospitality

April 3
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“They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.” (Ruth 1:4-5, NIV)

It is hard to imagine a more dire situation than the one described in today’s scripture: Death, young widowhood, exile to a foreign land, and bleak economic prospects. This story of Naomi and her two daughters-in-law doesn’t end there, but it does begin in pain and uncertainty.

(There is more to this story, of course; and I encourage you to read the four short chapters that comprise the book of Ruth for the rest of the story.  Please click here for the full text!)

Despite the dark outlook, Naomi, Ruth, Orpah, and others, nevertheless, persist in the practice of humility, hospitality, and honesty. Although they were not assured of a short-term positive outcome — none of us ever are — they are confident in God. 

As did Naomi and the others, we show our confidence (another word for “faith”) in our heavenly Father by persisting in humility, hospitality, and honesty; especially during times of pain and uncertainty.  – Luther

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November 12
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“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 such places to provide hope and healing.  – Luther

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November 11
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“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2, NIV)

Some years ago, during the funeral service for a dear friend and early mentor of mine, my friend’s former pastor commented on how she and her husband were models of hospitality.

“Hospitality is inviting someone to inhabit your space,” the pastor said. I had not heard a more simple yet profound definition of that word before — or since.

The writer of the book of Hebrews reminds us to invite strangers to inhabit OUR space.  Our spaces are usually cultivated, comfortable, and secure.  Yet, the stranger often enjoys none of those benefits because he is often far, far from his own home. 

It is through the practice of hospitality that we expose ourselves to the possibility of serving one of God’s angels; the possibility of making a new friend; and the certainty of being obedient to God.  – Luther

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