Hospitality saved

Do not forget hospitality; for in practicing it, some have lodged angels, without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:2)

Hospitality has always been an important value in many cultures. In the Bible, we see that Abraham was hospitable to the angels who visited him, and Jesus often spoke of the importance of welcoming strangers. Today, hospitality remains an essential element of many cultures around the world.

We are called to love our neighbor as ourselves and to show grace and mercy, even to those who don't deserve it. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). When we walk in the Spirit, we naturally produce these fruits in our lives, and one of those fruits is kindness. Goodness is readily available to us because it is a fruit of the Spirit. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, its fruits are evident in our lives.

In some cultures, it's considered impolite to refuse a guest, and in others, hospitality is seen as a way of building relationships and connecting people. Whether we see it as a duty or an opportunity, there's no denying that hospitality can be a powerful force for good in the world.

When we open up to others with kindness and generosity, we pave the way for connection and understanding. In a world sometimes marked by conflict and division, hospitality can be a small but significant act of kindness that can make a big difference.

The hospitality recommended to us cannot be possible without love, sincerity and simplicity of heart. It is exercised in complete frankness and freedom. It is voluntary, without hypocrisy or murmuring, without complaint or backbiting. It is a source of happiness according to the Bible, but requires wisdom.

For exercising it, the widow of Zarephath was saved from famine by the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 17:9, etc.).
Elisha, for his hospitality, allowed the barren Tsunamite to conceive and give birth to a child. Can we too offer hospitality in our hearts to the Holy of Holies?

Jesus says in Revelation 3:20: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with me".