The lost art of hospitality

The Scriptures put a high premium on hospitality. Paul said an elder must enjoy hosting people in his home (1Ti 3:2). Peter commanded, “Be hospitable without complaint.” (1Pe 4:9) Because of our increasingly independent and isolated society we are losing the art of hospitality. Having people in your home for longer periods of time fosters relationships that lead to encouragement and growth. It allows for a more natural transmission of wisdom by example. Spending a weekend with someone would be much more effective than preaching at them for an hour. I am considering the idea of hosting “mini-retreats” in my home. The concept would be to have two other couples over for a weekend of bible study, fellowship and fun. Pray for Kathy and me as we pursue this application of hospitality.

Be, know, DO

Paul said the purpose of his instruction was love. (1Tim 1:5) He warned that many would want to be teachers but would not understand what they are teaching (1Ti 1:7). Here again, we see an emphasis on doing rather than knowing. Paul clearly wants us to serve one another in practical ways, not just dole out high plane answers and Scriptural prescriptions. To the Corinthians he said, “If I speak with the tongues of men and angels, but have not love, I’m a clanging gong...” (1Co 13) No doubt the Scripture is important, but none of us apply as much as we know. Really, we could spend our lives working on, “it is better to give than to receive,” or “love your neighbor as yourself” or “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Focus on doing, not just knowing!

Deceptive religion

Religion is a dangerous thing. We can be very religious and miss God’s will entirely. Faith without works is dead (Jam 2:14-17). Even devotion to the Scriptures can evolve into useless religion. James said, “Be doers of the word, not merely hearers,” (Jam 1:22) and “Let not many of you become teachers.” (Jam 3:1). Pure religion involves action. It is caring for people. (Jam 1:27) It is meeting practical needs in the name of Jesus. Those who have lived long in the faith understand this. They prove their faith by doing good works in the humility that comes with wisdom (Jam 3:13).

Where peace begins

What everyone really wants is peace. They may not be able to articulate it, but they are in search of peace of mind, heart and soul. Paul wrote that this peace is found only in Christ. In fact he gives us the practical steps to achieve it: 1) don’t worry, 2) pray 3) ask God for what you need 4) be thankful. (Phil 4:6-7) If we follow theses steps an inexplicable peace will guard our hearts and minds. During this season we may not be able to bring about “peace on earth,” but perhaps we can cultivate an internal peace that will bless those around us.

Fill up, pour out

Following Jesus means emulating his sacrifice. Giving yourself to others involves some inherent suffering. You cannot sacrifice unless you have something to give. Paul says that what we have to give is what Jesus gives to us; the encouragement, comfort and fellowship that are found in Christ and His Spirit (Phil 2:1) We are to fill up on the blessings of Christ and pour ourselves out for others. Nobody is going to choose to suffer without some promise of remuneration. Again, we follow Christ’s example. He was obedient to death knowing that his Father would reward him with a name that is above all names (Phil 2:5-11). Being a disciple of Jesus is to become a channel of blessing; receiving the spiritual resources to pour out on others in full expectation that God will refill and reward us.

Be different, make a difference

What distinguishes God’s chosen people? Happiness? Pride? Religion? Exclusiveness? No, none of these. Paul said that, as God’s chosen people, we should be merciful, kind, humble, gentle, patient and forgiving (Col 3:12-13). Now those are qualities that will set you apart from the crowd! Train these characteristics into your character and you will truly be distinct from those around you. Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (Joh 13:35). Lord, make my life different from the the crowd and attractive to those who desperately need you. Use me as a lure to draw people to you.

The gift of loving

Loving people does not come naturally. It is a gift from the Holy Spirit (Col 1:8). We all have our quirks and foibles. If you are easily offended you will soon be driven from society. Loving people is choosing not to be offended, to forbear, forgive, give the benefit of the doubt (1Co 13). While extending maximum grace and latitude to those around you, you must do your best not to offend. You must abstain from demanding your rights and stating your opinions. It seems unfair, but that is what true love is; sacrificing yourself for others. You can only manage to pull it off by the power of the Holy Spirit.