The Benefits of Being Hospitable

Hospitality refers to the relationship between a guest and a host, wherein the host receives the guest with goodwill, including the reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.

by Mike Corthell

''Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.''

— Hebrews 13:2

Good hospitality might seem like a totally selfless act, but by being hospitable to others, especially those in need, benefits us as well.

Most of us live harried lives, running here and there and it can be difficult to practice hospitality. ''Hey, come on over, we'll have dinner,'' becomes an empty enticement for many of us. It doesn't have to be.

Hospitality is more than a good deed to be checked off a list I can give you. it is a spiritual mindset. It is letting people into your home but it is also into your life — it is a human social need as well a loving deed.

''Open your homes to each other and share your food without complaining.''

— 1 Peter 4:9

Why should we be hospitable?

We are all stewards. “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace,” (1 Peter 4:10). 

Hospitality is love manifested. “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” Hospitality is loving your neighbor — the second great commandment from God.

Hospitality does not have to be perfect. You don't have to be rich to welcome people into your home or be a neat freak. It can be a good thing for someone to come into your home and to get a sense of how you live and know you better. Honesty builds intimacy.

Hospitality is being like God and thanks God. ''For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 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.'' All of this, all that we do in serving in the strength that God supplies.

So, my friends, hospitality is another manifestation of love — keep on being hospitable, do it in all kinds of ways. People will be blessed just by being in your home no matter how humble it is. Let your love be inviting.

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