Come, Prepare The Welcome – Dr Kristen Dang 

5 MINUTE READ

From Luke’s Journal June 2024  |  Vol.29 No.2  |  Christian Hospitality

Recently, I began organising decade-old photos, the process reminding me of many fun and joyful moments shared with family and friends. Newly married and settled in our first home, we enjoyed quite a number of gatherings, made room for extra guests, and took the time to make table-length spreads for many shared meals.

While our current season of life raising young children limits our ability to provide the kind of hospitality we extended previously, the need and means for a welcoming home persist. It has made me search and question what hospitality means on a deeper level, and how it can be extended to others on a consistent, daily basis.

“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me’.” (Matthew 25:40 NIV).

Come As You Are

One challenge I find with practicing hospitality in our current season is balancing my desire to give the best of what we can, with what is practical in the moment. When guests come to stay, I want to give them a hotel experience but in practice, we need to just squeeze everyone in where they can fit! The house is more messy than minimalist and kid’s activities have overtaken the ‘city tours’ that we used to take our guests on.

When I look at how Jesus extends his hospitality, I am reminded to see that it was often provided in less-than-ideal settings. Instead, it was about sharing practical things – fish and bread on a crowded mountainside, conversation in the dark of night, and peace amidst the stormy seas.

“When I look at how Jesus extends his hospitality, I am reminded to see that it was often provided in less-than-ideal settings.”

In Max Lucado’s book, The Wonderful World of Wemmicks, there is a story entitled, “Your Special Gift”. In it, the characters, called Wemmicks, initially struggle to help a passing family in need. Upon coming to Eli (who represents our Creator God), they realise that each of them has been given a gift perfectly fitted to themselves. Eli explains “Each of you do the most what you do the best.” With that, the Wemmicks are finally able to help the family and bring them to meet Eli. God has given us all different talents and gifts, personalities and resources. We do not need to have the fanciest homes or be the greatest chefs to extend a warm welcome to others. Jesus tells us to come as we are and let Him use us to bless.

The Stranger and The Friend

Over the years, our church has grown such that I am continuously meeting so many new people! I love meeting others and hearing their individual stories of life. Yet, at the same time, I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the realisation that I cannot regularly catch up with every old and new friend. How do we make room in our hearts for more? How do we find time in our hectic schedules for the people God needs us to welcome at a particular time?

We need to let go, be prepared, and open up. While I have mostly grown up and lived in the same city, my husband is more internationally accustomed. We recently discussed how this has affected our views and expectations of friendships. I realise that it is impossible to deeply invest in every friendship as there is just not enough time. We can, however, be prepared so that every interaction we have with others is saturated with as much love and blessing as possible. There are a number of people at my church who I have witnessed to do this well. They seem ever-ready to embrace the newcomer, whoever and however many there might be. It brings to mind Susan Eckhoff’s devotional on “Open, the Hospitable Heart” which encourages us to listen to others, ask thoughtful questions and cultivate fun and joy in our relationships.  

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Hebrews 13:2 NIV).

A Matter of Heart

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” (1 Peter 4:8-9, NIV).

Hospitality is not always found in the extravagant, but in the simple act of sharing. We can share our hearts, share our griefs, share a smile, and share a meal whether simply or lavishly served. We can sleep on floors, and in being together, still feel completely welcomed and accepted.

We can look to discover the different love languages of those around us and make the effort to speak in theirs. Simple things aligned with someone’s predominant love language are amplified many times more. We can offer, and continue to give without complaint, drawing our own strength and joy from God who always and forever welcomes us in His arms.

Hospitality, as demonstrated in the Bible, was found in tents and palaces, homes and prisons. It was found wherever a heart was willing to welcome with God’s love.

Are we ready and willing to welcome others and bring them into the comfort of God’s love?

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