Inside-Out Hospitality

‘Follow who know road’ is a pidgin English saying which means that if you want to go somewhere or do something, it’s best to follow the lead or example of someone who has done it before. Who is best placed to teach us hospitality than the One with ever-open arms? Yes, I am talking about God, Our Creator, and all-time Host.

God: The Host Then

Take a look at all the preparations He made to host His companions, us humans. The whole of creation (Genesis 1-2) reflects us when we want to set up our homes to welcome guests. We clean, arrange, and beautify the scenery, provide entertainment, make room, and provide refreshments. And like every good host, God looks to see it is good for His guests.

Moreover, when the guests eventually came, He didn’t leave them to themselves (unlike us, sometimes). No, He spent time with them regularly. He gave them freedom, and authority, all translating to ‘feel at home’. Oh, what a lovely Host.

He also gave boundaries (which are important when it comes to being hospitable, but we will address this in a different post). Man, eventually crossed the boundaries and were sent away from the beautiful Garden of Eden. Man became a stranger to God.

 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behaviour. Colossians 1: 21

That, however, did not stop God from being hospitable throughout the scriptures. Eventually, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to die for our sins (John 3:16) and ultimately welcome us back into His Home. He is not the type that sits and waits for you to make the first move, no no…He comes running to you (Luke 15:11-32, the story of the prodigal son).

20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. (emphasis mine). 

And when you accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, this happens:

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household. Ephesians 2:19

Jesus Christ showed great hospitality throughout His time on earth. He was usually found with those who did not seem to deserve love, such as sinners, the underprivileged, children, and others. Moments before His death, Jesus hosted the Last Supper!

God: The Host Now

Every now and then, when I feel stressed, I will go somewhere with hospitality services e.g. a hotel to spend the night or days, go to a restaurant, or spa, or hang out with friends to de-stress. But sometimes, you either do not want to step out or your friends and family are unavailable. God, however, is always available and always extends the invitation for us to come to Him.

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]. Matt 11:28 Amplified Bible

I bet you, with Him, you receive a 5-Star treatment. You do not have to worry about the cost because Jesus already paid it. ALL EXPENSES PAID.

What’s more? When you accept Jesus, the Holy Spirit begins to dwell in you and oh my, He is such a lovely Host and ‘guest’ which we will address in another post.

God: The Host Forever

Ultimately, Jesus will return to take us believers home and He says there is more than enough room. The Host has already prepared everything and is just waiting for you. So, no need to worry.

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.” John 14:1-4

A heavenly banquet awaits us! 

And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.” Revelations 19:9

I am beginning to think God is called the Lord of Hosts (Isaiah 37:16) for other reasons than His large army! He is always hosting!

Conclusion

God The Father, Son and Spirit have shown us great hospitality by welcoming us into the heavenly home. Having moved from strangers to co-heirs, we see that it’s in our spiritual DNA (made in the image of God helllloooooo) to also show hospitality towards others.

What tips can you pick from the hospitality of God that you can put into practice today? Write in the comments below.

See you next time.