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The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
(1 Peter 4: 7-9 NIV)
Ah, hospitality. The word brings warm memories to mind. It makes me think of times I’ve walked into a home in Mexico and been greeted with open arms and kisses from the whole family. It reminds me of afternoons I’ve been served generous portions of sweets and coffee, just for dropping by to chat with a friend. I look around my own home and it is dotted with gifts others have insisted I take when I leave after a visit.
When I read on, though, I see that Peter is quick to point out another action that often accompanies hospitality: grumbling. And he has good reason to tie those two words together. When I reflect on them, my heart turns heavy. That’s because there have been many times when I’ve opened the door of my own home to an unexpected visitor and thought, “Oh no, they’re going to be here for hours!â€
God knows this, and he hears the complaints I pass on to my husband about losing an afternoon of housework or an evening with the kids because of unforeseen guests. How wrong of me!
God, in his wisdom, sent Jesus to wipe those sins away. His unconditional, perfect love covers over all of my sins. He also offers me a comforting thought, earlier in these verses, to keep things in perspective. He tells us the end is near. When it does come, I will be to enter the most hospitable place imaginable: heaven.
What a blessing to be able to share our time, food, and drink with others now – while we are still on this Earth. The chance to be able to build up a loved one in faith, or to share the message of salvation with a friend over coffee, is a wonderful opportunity.
The next time I have a visitor show up, I want to have a truly open, receiving heart. I ask that God use me to serve others while they are in my home, and while there is still time. May my door always be open and my smile, genuine.
Ask the Lord
Lord, thank you for putting me in the position that you have. Forgive me for the times I have grumbled about serving others. Please help me carry out the role you have place me in as best as I can, and let my hospitality serve as a light both to those that know you and those that don’t. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
- Rachel Hartman
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