Examining Scripture:
“For I say, through the grace
given unto me,
to every man
that is among you,
not to think of himself
more highly than
he ought to think;
but to think soberly,
according as God hath
dealt to every man
the measure of faith.
For as we have
many members in one body,
and all members
have not the same office:
So we, being many,
are one body in Christ,
and every one members
one of another.”
Romans 12:3-5
Evaluating Soil:
Who doesn’t like being invited and included? Being treated as an outcast or as inferior is rough at any age.
Stopped long enough to say, “Hey.” and have a few bites of refreshment and a moment’s rest with me.
There’s no shortage of events and activities to get involved in these days. The opportunities to sign up and join in are endless. There are churches on every corner and a club, group, or organization to participate in almost everywhere we go, on or offline. It’s pretty easy to find someone, somewhere, who shares our interests and passions.
So, why do so many of us feel isolated, lonely, neglected, or overlooked? Why are we so uncomfortable that we decline invitations or hesitate to invite others into our circles, homes, and lives?
Could it be that we think that we’re too good or not good enough for others? Do we alienate ourselves from society because we are ashamed of who we are, what we have, or what we do? Do we purposefully exclude or include people for the same reasons?
Experiencing Seasons:
I spend a lot of time at home alone. Since I work at home, don’t have children or grandchildren, and drive very little, I can feel a little isolated in my personal space at times. While I love being home working or homemaking most days, there are moments when I need a hit of social interaction. (It’s even better with cup of Chia tea. Wink.)
However, I don’t always open my doors to others. I’m cautious and careful about letting people freely into my heart and home. I use to enjoy having guests, but due to hurtful experiences, I’ve become more shut off in the last number of years.
Sometimes, when I forget the purpose of hospitality, I don’t want to be around people. Some reasons I tend to shut others out are that I:
- Don’t trust
- Don’t care
- Don’t have the energy
This is when I have to check my heart and thoughts and renew my mind.
Embracing Solace:
It’s very difficult to share the spirit of hospitality when we are secluded or shunned from social interaction. This is not the way we are to think about ourselves or others.
When we think right about ourselves, we’ll feel comfortable showing hospitality to others and inviting family, friends, guests, and strangers into our lives.
Enjoying Simplicity:
Gatherings are pleasantly simpler and sweeter when we respect each other and think of one another as better than ourselves. Humility nurtures harmony.
Employing Solutions:
People notice when we live holy and hospitable lives. They can see what we’re thinking. They know when we include or exclude people for the wrong reasons.
“A new commandment I give unto you,
That ye love one another;
as I have loved you,
that ye also love one another.
By this shall all men know
that ye are my disciples,
ye have love one to another.”
John 13:34-35
Biblical love and hospitality happens when we humble ourselves and think right.
Bring It Home
Is how we’re thinking affecting or interfering with our hospitality toward others?
Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC
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