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“Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.””
My Two Cents….
We might say, “everyone is welcome. Come on in, our door is open.” But is this true? Can anyone really just walk on in and receive a welcome that is genuine? Sure, we might advertise it on our churches and our homes. We might even embrace the concept in our hearts. But what about when ‘that person whom we don’t like’ comes knocking? Do we greet them as a friend with a generous smile? Or do we glare or communicate with a ‘polite’ grin our displeasure that they didn’t have the good sense to stay away?
I like this verse from Romans because it helps to give shape and form to my welcome. We are to welcome one another in the manner of Jesus. Less we construct “Jesus-in-our-own-image,” the Gospels are filled with enough examples to keep us on track. Jesus shared kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and hospitality with friends and foes, strangers and acquaintances, insiders and outsiders, Pharisees and tax collectors. I can’t imagine that it was always easy, even for the Son of God. But Jesus framed his welcome in the abundant and unlimited love of God.
Jesus never stopped welcoming. Even when he was dying on the cross, he shared words of forgiveness to both his executioners, a hateful crowd, and a criminal who hung alongside of him. Amazing. But that is how God’s hospitality works. It is full of grace and doesn’t stop.
When I think about the hospitality of Jesus, it inspires me to try a little harder on the way I welcome others. It makes me want to smile more, be a bit more patient, and slow down enough to recognize those around me who are in need. I still don’t always welcome as I should, but trying to imitate Jesus is a good start heading in the right direction.
In Christ’s Light,
Walt
Starting November 4, I will be offering a new daily devotional called WELCOME; Sharing in God’s Greeting. It is a four-week series on Christian hospitality. Stay tuned for more information about how you can subscribe.
Permission granted to share today's content with family and friends. Copyrighted 2019. Walt Lichtenberger