Steven A. Bush - November 28, 2015
Advent and Hospitality
Romans 12:9-13 says: "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." (ESV) Hebrews 13:1-2 adds: "Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." (ESV) Hospitality holds hands with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Being hospitable has long been a trait of Jesus' followers. During Advent, we celebrate our Lord's first coming while anticipating His return. Why did Jesus come in the first place? Though that list is extensive, be sure of this: He came to turn enemies into friends, sinners into saints, strangers into family, and spiritual orphans into beloved children. He's invited us into His eternal home to live forevermore. Can we take His invitation seriously? Jesus shed His blood to make it happen--He endured the cross so we might be received into His abode. As for hospitality, it has no greater example than this.