And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
Memory Verse: Distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Romans 12:13.
Things have definitely changed over time when it comes to hospitality and we often notice that even when speaking to individuals about our love for Christ, they struggle to relate and why is that not so surprising? Many times we speak the word of God to the world without showing evidence of that which we speak hence when individuals see and hear us, they see two different people; they see a speaker whose actions does not corroborate with his message hence there is confusion even in the sight of nonbelievers.
The moment we give our lives to Christ, we become transformed but that’s a moment of confusion for our system as the spirit man becomes opposite of what the body wants. We are spiritually dedicated to the things of God of which Love is top priority. With love comes hospitality which is the intentional act of welcoming, sheltering and feeding others with no though of personal gain and this is where the struggle is for most Christians.
Hospitality is the heart of love and Jesus himself while on earth was very compassionate. Therefore, if we truly are following the footsteps of our savior, then we know that hospitality is a necessity. The bible shows how Rehab was rewarded by receiving protection at the battle of Jericho’s for extending hospitality to Joshua’s spies according to Joshua 2:12-14 and Nabel was punished for his lack of hospitality to David’s men according to 1Samuel 25:2-39.
We cannot keep expecting from God without the willingness to bless others, therefore it is written that believers are to be hospitable towards each other without grumbling, Galatians 5:13 as when we are hospitable, we are working for the Lord. Yes your hospitality is an act of worship.
Hospitality allows the light of God to shine through us and when it shines, we are glorifying God our Father in Heaven. The scripture says; Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16.
PRAYERS
- Father I thank you for your wonderful gifts you daily lavish me with
- I am thankful for your steadfastness to your word despite my imperfections and for your Love
- Help me to be compassionate towards others, to show benevolence and to meet other’s needs
- I receive the power of a giver, guide me Lord and lead me to reach out to those in need
- Help me to walk with you daily, live my life for you and be at the centre of it all
- Forgive me Lord of all my iniquities, bless me abundantly and make me a blessing unto others, in Jesus mighty name I pray, Amen.
