HGTV House Hunters is a reality show that follows people searching for a place to live. When looking for a new home the focus is the inside and outside of the house itself. Granite countertops, landscaping, curb appeal, etc. One question they never ask is, “Who are the neighbors?” The people you live next to have a huge impact on the quality of our lives. Agreed? Who has had some really good neighbors? Who has had some other kinds of neighbors? In the grand scheme of things, relationships are much more important than brick and mortar, and our neighborhoods are much more than a collection of houses. Our homes are tools to use to focus on the that which really matters, people.
Actions speak louder than words. It is ineffective to believe the writings of scripture without embracing the ways of the Savior. #TheTable
When Jesus wanted to explain to His disciples what His death was all about, He didn’t give them an informative lecture. He gave them a relational meal.
In a society that has grown so relationally disconnected, an invitation to Biblical hospitality might be one of the most compelling and irresistible aspects of Christianity.
Romans 12:10-13 Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor; 11never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit, enthusiastically serving the Lord; 12constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength], 13 contributing to the needs of God’s people, pursuing [the practice of] hospitality. AMP
“Pursuing the practice” is translated from the same Greek Word we find used in Phil 3, “press on.”
Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me… 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. NIV
The command to pursue hospitality in Romans 12 is given in the context of presenting ourselves to God as living sacrifices.
To pursue hospitality out of obedience is to “plan for it, prepare for it, pray about it, and seek opportunities to do it.” We’re called to push through our anxieties and conquer our excuses as part of our call to expand God’s Kingdom in the earth.
So how do we do this and what does this look like? All of our tables look very different, but one thing in common they are centrally located in the very heart of the home. Meal at restaurant is good, but it really is true, “Home is where the heart is.”
THE SPIRITUAL SIDE OF THE PRACTICAL:
Part of this process involves more than practical tips, but mutual submission in pursuit of God’s supernatural help together as a family. It’s when we dwell together in unity that God’s anointing and blessing is released (Psalm 133). Paul writes about the impartation of supernatural gifts and abilities as part of a unified effort to pursue the plans of God together.
Romans 1:11-12 I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong— 12 that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. NIV
THE PRACTICAL SIDE OF THE SPIRITUAL:
1. Practice being interested rather than trying to be interesting.
2. Pray for those you will be hosting by name asking God for wisdom to have healthy and edifying discussion.
3. If everybody at your table is a believer a great question is simply, “How did you meet the Lord?”
If everybody is not a believer then deeper questions could be things like:
1. When, where and what was your strongest experience of community (belonging)?
2. What is the earliest spiritual experience you remember?
The heart of hospitality is about creating space for someone to feel seen, heard and cared for.
Don’t get caught up in the comparison trap.
“You think your house is small, but to the lonely heart, it is a castle. You think the living room is a mess, but to the person whose life is a mess, your house is a sanctuary. You think the meal is simple, but to those who eat alone every night, pork and beans on paper plates tastes like filet mignon.” Max Lucado
This is not about tasting food. This is about Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the Lord is good!
Don’t feel like this has to be a meal. Having someone over for coffee is a legitimate table experience.
God is love so the presence of God is the presence of love and that will change any willing person's heart.
We Bring GP2RL Action Point:
Examine your response asking God to help you see what he’s wanting you to see in it.
Continue praying about who God may be asking you to invite into your home.