1 Peter 4:7-11
7The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. 11If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen
Today at church we talked about hospitality..that even when we are tired and feel like just hiding away, we are to show others the love of Christ by inviting them into our lives, and into our homes. I love my alone time, but I know that it would be a huge blessing(for me) to reach out to others purposefully and "do life" with them. Even if we're not close. God puts people into our lives for a reason. I want to be able to carry out this commandment to show hospitality.
I am thinking about just having a movie night or a game night to start. We'll be having Bible study at my place this session (so like 10 weeks), so that will definitely help me get used to having people over consistently.
Something else Josh (pastor) said was that he was convicted that he lives in an 6 apartment building, and he has never invited any of his neighbors in. I haven't had my neighbors over either and I've lived in my neighborhood for three and a half years. I guess I just don't feel like we have much in common.
We as a church have committed to pray that we would make a concentrated effort to show hospitality to both believers and unbelievers in our community. I am always a bit apprehensive when I get nudged out of my comfort zone..but it is always worth it. Always.
5 comments:
I know all of my neighbors and we spend a lot of time together..This will be wonderful for you.
Love and friendship is a wonderful thing.
Bobby
Hi Angela-
I need to work on hospitality myself...I LOVE being around people, I just don't do a good job inviting people over....I'm lazy about it.
Thanks for the reminder. :)
Kelly
Have you ever thought about the 'Big Sister's' Program? I feel like you'd be perfect at it. I was talking to Jen tonight, and she reiterated to me how much she loves talking to you and what an impact you had on her last summer. Thanks again for being so willing to open up to her.
You're a peach.
Hey Angela! Thanks for your comment over at my blog. It's a big encouragement to me to see others who have a big passion for the gospel!
I'm friends with Jennifer on facebook and from what I can see, she seems to be doing okay...probably busy with school coming to an end.
Have a great day! Love ya!
I love your heart Angela. You seem so willing and ready to step out and make yourself vulnerable to others. I admire that in you.
I struggle with doing that. I think I have issues. :)
I'm sure you are a Shepherd. Your love for people and concern for their spiritual condition clearly shows.
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