The Cost of Kindness

On a busy Sunday, I was eager to get home after evening Bible study. I found a place in my favourite armchair where I could relax with a book to read. The reading she read had focused on practical Christianity where it says, “If you really love your neighbour, you'll serve even when it doesn't suit you,” the speaker had said; and she had nodded in agreement. As I was at home with my husband, a doorbell rang. A guest from nearby town had brought us a message and seemed keen to come in from the cold. The couple offered the caller a quick smile. So, the man began a conversation with my husband and soon the visitor had settled into an armchair. I had a thought to offer him said, “If she given him a cup of coffee he would stay the whole evening” and just when I did, the guest responded, “Oh, yes please” and the guest did stay late into the night. Just as the Scriptures said, “Let me bring a little bread that you may refresh yourselves” (Genesis 18:5, NIV) indeed, Abraham brought food for his visitors. And, He gave them food to eat and drink. “Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared” (Genesis 18:8, NIV). Abraham did so most generously, just when he had settled down to rest. God prepares us to feed on food that He given us.

In the night when I was reading, I felt that I needed to confess my lack of love and ask God to give me another opportunity soon to care for someone when it is inconvenient.

Truly, we accept His Word that can nourish our body and soul of our lives. Just as Jesus said, “I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink” (Matthew 25:35, NIV). By this, we offer food to people so that we can welcome them into our midst. “Love your neighbour as you love yourself.” (Matthew 22:39, NIV)

In hospitality, we invite others to share pleasure with us. We receive people as they are.

Profile Background:
Elaine Brown – (Perthshire, Scotland), Upper Room Ministries

Prayer Response to this featured article:
Do pray that we become sensitive to people needs to whom’ needs to hear the gospel through receiving our hospitality today;