Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Imitation to Christ’s Hospitality

Psalm 15

Mathew Lukose

Epiphany MTC, NY

Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart” Vs 1-2

The Webster’s dictionary defines hospitality as the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly and generous way. Jesus taught us, His children, to be hospitable. Hospitality is a part and parcel of Christian life. It is profoundly important as a service to God and fellow humans. Hospitality can refresh people, establish good and lasting relationships, provide shelter, feed the hungry, and serve others; just like Jesus did when He turned water into wine (John 2: 1-11) or when He washed the feet of His disciples. (John 13:3-11)  

How can we imitate Christ’s hospitality? The psalm starts with the question what kind of a person can hang out with Jesus. In other words what kind of a person Jesus considers a friend; one who can be imitate His life and character. Jesus wants us to be caring Christians. In Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus Himself described the characteristics of a caring person. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind and to love your neighbor as yourself.

Christ’s hospitality deals with the totality of life based on His character. This includes the way we walk, the way we talk and the way we act. The innocent are to be protected; the hungry must be fed, the sick must be tended to, etc. These were fulfilled in Christ and must be fulfilled in us who abide in Him and walk with Him.   

The psalmist lays out three ways in which we can show that we care, love God and love one another.  

1. Personal- Do we have a personal relationship with Christ? The more time we spend with Christ, the more we will be able to be a reflection of His love as we build personal relationships with others around us. If we claim to be Christians but are unwilling to build relationships with others, are we truly fulfilling God’s will for us?

 2. Verbal- Do our words and thoughts genuinely reflect the love of Christ? Do others, who we come in contact with, experience Christ’s love through our words?  

3. Actions- Are we using our talents and resources for the glory of God? What role does this play in God’s call for us to love our neighbors? Are we able to humble ourselves and share our talents and resources with those around us?  

Each one of us must find ways in which we can share Christ’s love through hospitality. Ask God to take control over our personal relationships, thoughts, speech, and actions.  

PRAYER

Lord, Your compassion never fails. Help us to imitate Your compassion and hospitality in our lives. Amen

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

Hospitality is love in Action – Alexander Strauch

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