Spiritual Gifts/Hospitality

     The gift of hospitality is at the very bottom of my list of giftedness. Before learning about the way God has made each of us in such unique and creative ways, I felt utterly inept in this area.I would worry and fret each time we invited guests over for dinner. Now, I have learned to relax and appreciate the gifts of my friends. The fact that most of them seem to have this seemingly impossible gift still amazes me.

     It is easy for someone like me to recognize this gift in others. But those with this gift often don’t recognize it in themselves. They assume everyone has the ability to make their homes welcoming, to be the first to welcome someone new at church or to open up their homes to visiting missionaries or other groups. This gift does not necessarily include gourmet cooking or interior design, but it often does.

     If you like to plan events, if you enjoy welcoming others to your home, even when unexpected, and if you consider your home a place of ministry you may have this gift. Providing a warm welcome, food, shelter and fellowship are all a part of this gift. People are comfortable around you and your home. Those with the gift of hospitality remain relaxed even when things are out of order. God has been challenging me to invite others to my home. Even those of us without this gift can certainly give it a try. In fact Scripture reminds us to do just that.

Offer hospitality one to another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12:13

    Talk about convicting Scripture! I certainly need the practice, not to mention the not grumbling part. How about you? If hospitality comes naturally, you are blessed and you are a blessing.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for those willing to open their homes with welcoming arms. You have gifted them to take care of others in such loving ways. Keep them from tiring and allow them to be served as well.

Amen