The Hospitality Factor

The LORD appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day. Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he hurried from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground. He said, "If I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, do not pass your servant by. Let a little water be brought, and then you may all wash your feet and rest under this tree. Let me get you something to eat, so you can be refreshed and then go on your way--now that you have come to your servant." "Very well," they answered, "do as you say." (Genesis 18:1-5 NIV)

Perhaps hospitality developed out of this story of Abraham's encounter with God. Perhaps it is a natural aspect of humanity. I don’t know when or how it developed, but down “in the South” it still thrives. Every community, village, and town has their wavers – people who acknowledge passers-by with a wave and a smile. It’s the first indication of the hospitality factor.

Go for a brisk walk in any southern town, when you begin to “break a sweat” stop at the first house where someone is sitting on the porch, veranda, or patio. Just a simple hello and talk about anything. Before you get very far, the person will offer you a drink of water, perhaps invite you to sit awhile and rest. It’s the second factor of hospitality.

Now, they won’t offer to wash your feet but if it’s close to meal time, provided you don’t look like a tramp, druggie, or a criminal, you’ll be invited to stay and eat. It’s the third factor of hospitality.

Even in the South, it’s not as normal in the 21st century as it was in the 20th century and that is tragic. It’s understandable though given the inherent dangers in our society. We have to use wisdom when extending hospitality to strangers, but we must not allow the dangers to stop it altogether. And of course, there are other ways of extending hospitality to those around us.

Dear Father, thank you for offering us the hospitality of your grace. Thank you for stopping by and visiting with us. Empower us with a gracious, courteous and hospitable spirit in all our ways. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today with gracious hospitality,