Monday, June 27, 2016

Practicing hospitality is a hallmark of the Christian community as described in the Bible. It was true of the people of God in the Old Testament as well. According to Psalm 23:5, God practiced hospitality, especially when one of His own people were in threatening circumstances. “You prepare a table, or banquette, before me in the presence of my enemies,” the psalmist said, “You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows.” Not only does God prepare nourishment for us, but more than we really need. On top of that He anoints our heads with oil, symbolic of giving us a place of honor and blessing. That is what God does. He practices hospitality. He wants us to know, even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death that He will always be there with us, providing what we need. Jesus Christ introduces hospitality into His explanation of what happens when a person experiences true Christianity. He said in Revelation 3:20, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will go in and eat with him, and he with me.” It’s as though Jesus is saying, “If you practice hospitality toward me, inviting me into your heart, your inner home, I will respond and make myself at home, sharing a meal at your table, to be with you and have fellowship with you, sharing with you all that I have to give, eternal and abundant living.” If you have never invited Him into your life why not do so now. Your life will never be the same. My heart, Christ’s home. Amen.