A Christian view of hospitality : expecting surprises

What does it mean for Christians to be hospitable? How, in this age of pressing deadlines and busy schedules, can we keep from sighing with the heaviness of one more Christian duty? Hospitality is often seen as a bland practice of politeness or an invitation to be harmed by a stranger. Biblical hospitality is different. God's call to love the stranger is neither boring nor dangerous. Instead, it is an invitation to experience God in a new way. Not in a way that depletes our energy, but always in a way where two become three, as God joins us at the table. People usually don't expect surprises. Yet biblical hospitality, the call to love the stranger, guarantees that a surprise is just around the corner. The guest becomes the host. Givers receive more than they give. God is seen in the most unlikely people. In the process, we become guests of the most gracious Host of all.… (more)