Tag Archives: obedience

“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)

During the funeral service for a dear friend and early mentor of mine, her former pastor commented on how my friend 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 the word “hospitality” 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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“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:”.  (Philippians 2:5, NIV)

The thought in today’s verse doesn’t end with the “:”.  Paul goes on to specify the attitudes that reflect the mind of Christ, which are:

a. Regarding gifts as opportunities. . . (Verse 6)  Some gifts you have, and some gifts you are!  Each are given to us for service, not for status!

b. . . . in servitude. . . (Verse 7) “Service” is an act.  On the other hand, “servitude” is a condition.  Do you and I maintain an attitude of servitude in our interactions with others?

c. . . . through humble obedience. (Verse 8)   A star athlete falls short of his or her potential when the coach is not obeyed.  Likewise, we must do, go, and be as the Holy Spirit directs; not for our own glory, but for the glory of God.

Are you cultivating “the same mindset as Christ Jesus” in your relationships with others?  – Luther

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