Often times there are obscure spiritual principles that, if violated or ignored, impact our quality of life. One such principle has to do with hospitality.
Our culture is increasingly individualistic and impersonal. We hide in the cocoon of our home, sit in anonymity at large church services, use the ATM, and shop and pay bills from our computer. Terms such as personal pan pizza, personal watercraft, personal trainer, etc are earmarks of our culture.
Have you ever considered the demise of the art of hospitality? Back when we lead a institutional church I was amazed at the number of people that never invited us into their homes. I later learned that some never allowed anyone to come thru their doors. This seemed odd to us since we regularly had 50-60 of our closest friends over for cookouts, hayrides, etc.
I find it interesting that Peter lists hospitality as paramount in view of “the end of all things being near”.
1 Peter 4:7-9 The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaint.
Paul writes to both Timothy and Titus and instructs them on how to identify leaders. He lists “one who shows hospitality” on both accounts.
I encourage you to stand against the stream of culture and invest yourself in hospitality. So what if a few potato chips get ground in your carpet. You will discover a rich connection with the heart of God!
mickey mooney
www.networkvine.org
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment