For Jesus and those who follow him, hospitality is a daily practice that transforms and opens the heart. Once Jesus’ first disciples got over the shock of preparing a quick meal for 5,000 or allowing kids into the VIP section to see Jesus, they discovered that hospitality meant more than being warm and friendly (Matthew 14:13–21; Luke 18:15–17).
Hospitality changes our hearts and actions so that we are available to meet the needs of others. Practicing hospitality with this understanding shifts the focus from the host who is in control, to the Holy Spirit who guides us as willing partners ready to serve. When disciples embody spiritual hospitality, the pressure to be perfect is lifted and the focus shifts to the Holy Spirit, who transforms both guest and host. This transformation gives a new image to hospitality, moving beyond the traditional images of serving in church kitchens and basements (which, sadly, often come with a lack of joy or mindfulness on the server’s part).
This message is excerpted from “Hospitality” by Valora K. Starr, a 2009 resource of the Women of the ELCA. Today we commemorate John of the Cross, renewer of the church, 1591.
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