Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
The Ministry of Hospitality
"Claudius had
ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, 3 and, because he
was of the same trade, he stayed with them, and they worked together—by trade
they were tentmakers."
In this passage, Paul visits the house of Aquila and
Priscilla. Paul tells of a long-standing relationship with this couple. His
gratitude for their hospitality is not mentioned lightly. Their ministry of
hospitality was not only a kind gesture, but also a very dangerous one. They
lived at a time when the early Church was being persecuted for their faith in
Jesus by both the Jews and the Roman government. During this troubling time,
the couple invites Paul into their home and takes care of him. Paul states that
they even risked their lives for him. (Romans 16:3-4)
We often think of Paul as the great missionary that expanded the church to previously untapped Gentile regions. We rarely think about the vital ministry of hospitality that Paul and other missionaries relied on to accomplish this daunting task. During this time, many of the early Christians were experiencing poverty due to discriminatory practices that prevented them from finding work. Just like the poor widow’s offering of all that she had, it is notable to see the early Christians’ willingness to give out of their poverty. Therefore, this ministry of hospitality required not just an open door, but also an open heart. It was a ministry of sacrifice.
We often think of Paul as the great missionary that expanded the church to previously untapped Gentile regions. We rarely think about the vital ministry of hospitality that Paul and other missionaries relied on to accomplish this daunting task. During this time, many of the early Christians were experiencing poverty due to discriminatory practices that prevented them from finding work. Just like the poor widow’s offering of all that she had, it is notable to see the early Christians’ willingness to give out of their poverty. Therefore, this ministry of hospitality required not just an open door, but also an open heart. It was a ministry of sacrifice.
Priscilla and Aquila are regarded by some as missionaries
in their own right. They accompanied Paul on a mission. (Acts 18:18-19) They
also spent time teaching others about the Gospel. Notably, they taught Apollos
(Acts 18:26) so that he could be more empowered to speak in the synagogues.
Together they were shining examples of partners, not only in marriage but also
in ministry. Their contribution was so monumental that churches that canonize
saints (Roman Catholic Church, Orthodox Church, etc) have named Priscilla and
Aquila as saints!
Today, are we willing to sacrifice our comforts and give
from our financial abundance to those in need? The idea that every
“Marthomite is a missionary” is a familiar one, almost cliché! Our church is
blessed with a mission-oriented past and present. If we want it to have a
future, then this ministry requires the contribution of our time and
resources. The sacrificial ministry of hospitality cannot end with the first
century believers, but must continue with each one of us. The home we have
worked hard to earn must be one with an open door and an open heart for His
ministry.
PRAYER
Lord
give us strength to give instead of wanting for ourselves. Help us to recognize
our abundance and give with whole hearts.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
“Hospitality is not about inviting people into our perfect homes, it is about inviting people into our imperfect hearts.” Author Unknown.
“Hospitality is not about inviting people into our perfect homes, it is about inviting people into our imperfect hearts.” Author Unknown.