Sunday, 13 May 2012

Hospitality

Contribute to the needs of the saints; pursue hospitality. Romans 12:13
Do not forget hospitality, for through this some, without knowing it, have entertained angels. Romans 12:13



In Romans 12:13 is to "pursue hospitality". In Philippians 3:14 is to "pursue Christ" and in 1 Corinthians 14:1 is to "pursue love..". As much as we pursue Christ, we also ought to pursue the various virtues of Christ expressed in human love and cherishing hospitality. To pursue Christ is spiritual and divine, and to purse love and hospitality is equally spiritual and divine with the expression of humanity. It will be ugly odd to only focus on the spiritual aspect of pursuing without the human expression of love and caring hospitality. The later compliments the former. If one genuinely does pursue Christ, it will be definitely manifested in the tender cherishing humanity of mutual love and care.


"Do not forget hospitality..", this is a gentle command. This is not an obligation and can easily be neglected, however, the Lord reminds, "do not forget", which implies the importance of hospitality. To God its so important that we have to be reminded, "do not forget". Not only so, the Lord attached a reward with such an act of hospitality, which is, "a blessing in disguise from God Himself in His visitation". Meaning, the guests are representative of God Himself, visiting us as He did with Abraham. With this revelation, which fool on earth would not entertain angles, God Himself? Making the case clear, we have to grasp for
hospitality whenever opportunity knocks our doors.


The Lord reminded me again of my need to be broad hearted and take care of the needs of the saints. By doing so, unknowingly, angles have been entertained. With this vision, I was delivered from reluctance to give hospitality due to my limited capacity. The Lord indeed knows my need to learn more. This indeed is one of my weaknesses and I am still learning. Thank the Lord, He reminded me of this need and how I look to the Lord for the grace to be such a person so loving and hospitable as Christ Himself is.

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