December 15, 2018
Luke 2:6-7
Luke 2:7, “She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.”
Hospitality:
• hospitable treatment, reception, or disposition
• the activity or business of providing services to guests
In today’s text, we read the familiar part of “no room in the inn” for Mary and Joseph. In fact, the writer of the pamphlet, Sue Mink explains in great detail the kind of place where Jesus was born. She also explains the great hospitality of a stranger taking them in. A complete stranger offer Mary and Joseph the only space they had available, an out building used for animals. Throughout Jesus’ ministry he often referred to hospitality and of the “welcoming” of people we don’t know. Acts of kindness, do not require us to know the person, their background or their circumstances…it costs nothing to smile and say hello, it costs nothing to listen to someone’s response to, “how are you?” Often taking the time to simply notice a person’s existence can turn a person’s life around. We all want to be noticed and not taken for granted. When was the last time you held a door open for someone or made eye contact? It’s easy to rush through a door,mm not thinking of the next person coming or going, it’s easy to look away when someone looks lost or confused, or simply out of place…these action speak to what kind of hearts and spirits we have. From the very beginning of Jesus’ life in the human form, He relied on the hospitality of strangers everywhere He traveled. And, jumping to the end of his life here on earth, a stranger offered a proper resting place. The greatest commandment is to “Love one another!” I believe hospitality it very near the top as well. Do you have room for Jesus in your life? Jesus has not only offered us a place to spend eternity, he’s designed a mansion specifically just for you!
“There are many rooms in my Father’s house. I wouldn’t tell you this, unless it was true. I am going there to prepare a place for each of you. -John 14:2 (CEV)
Friends, thank you for your continued support. I pray for you at this season of advent, share God’s love with others and open your hearts to hospitality, giving and receiving. Much love to you all!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, May I welcome others as you welcome me.
~Peace and Blessings~
References:
HOPE SEEKER 
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