When others come to your home or are in need, what is the approach you take? I know that Out home is open to all comers and when they do come, they are treated as though they have always been here. As an example, the friends of our youngest son have been welcomed with open arms. They have been given the green light to enter without knocking and help themselves to snacks and drinks that we have available. And where they were resistant at first, they have embraced the idea and although they are still extremely respectful and announce themselves to everyone when they do come, they have relaxed and accepted the hospitality we have offered.
“5Beloved, it is a faithful thing you do in all your efforts for these brothers, strangers as they are, 6who testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God.” – 3 John 1:5-6 (ESV)
John, writing to Gaius, is sure to praise him for the hospitality he shows to all comers. Those that had been traveling he opened his home to them even at the rebuke of a church leader who was more interested in himself than doing the work of God. Notice in the above verses that Gaius demonstrated the example of Christ and took the strangers in and then when they were set to leave, he was encourage to continue that example in sending them out. I can just see Gaius loading them up with provisions for their travels like food and drink and any spare blankets or the like.
I was reminded of Matthew 5:40, “40And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.” (ESV) Now I know that the context is completely wrong as Jesus is referring to those that are doing wrong against us, but does it not truly demonstrate the hospitality and love of God that should be in all of us. There is no reason to fight back as relates to monetary things as God will provide our needs. The same holds true when demonstrating hospitality to others, we should be sure that they are comfortable and have what they need as God will do the same back to us.
My worthy hospitality needs to be on display at every turn. It is my duty to be the example of Christ in all that I do so as to bring glory to Him and comfort to others that they have the opportunity to grow closer to God and experience the glory and blessings He has for them and the rest of His children.
When you are out there in the world, what is your approach to others that come into your world? Are you interested in bringing attention to yourself at the expense of providing for others? What if we demonstrated hospitality worthy of Christ and gave full provision to others as an example of Christ and His provision for us?
Trevor's Thoughts 