"Hospitality"

August 11, 2021 | By Chuck

Hospitality is a friendly reception and welcoming spirit to guests and strangers.  Hospitality is exactly what we expect when we are a guest in someone’s home or staying in a hotel on vacation.  In fact, if hospitality is not what we receive as guests, we are more than disappointed and may not return.  What about hospitality in the church?  As a congregation, how are we at showing hospitality? 

            The Bible is clear that Christians are to be a hospitable people.  “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling” (I Pet.4:9).  Peter encourages hospitality from pure motives and a right heart.  How do we stack up?  “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Heb. 13:2).  There’s no doubt that hospitality is something the Lord’s church should take seriously.  What exactly does this mean? 

            A hospitable church is one who puts forth much effort to be visitor friendly and accommodating to all guests.  We must recognize our guests and make it a point to welcome them.  We must make ourselves available to answer questions our first-time guests may have.  All in all, a congregation showing hospitality is about treating others as if they are a visitor in your home for the first time.  A warm and friendly greeting.  An invitation to sit with you and maybe even an invitation to lunch.  May we see the importance of showing hospitality.