Spiritual Disciplines: Hospitality
Our Spiritual Disciplines series is winding down. Last Sunday, guest speaker Dennis Turner said that hospitality is a spiritual gift for some of us, but Jesus shows us that it should be a discipline for us all. Throughout Scripture, we see that hospitality is not merely about providing food and shelter, but about extending a warm welcome and creating a space where people feel seen, valued and loved.
Jesus himself serves as the ultimate model of Biblical hospitality. Throughout the Gospels, we see Him consistently welcoming people into His life and offering them compassion, understanding and forgiveness. By following Jesus’ example, we can create a culture of hospitality within our own communities.
Dennis used the illustration of circles to describe the different levels of hospitality. The “closed circle” represents our closest relationships, the “dotted circle” represents acquaintances and those we may encounter in our daily lives, and the “half circle” represents strangers. Hospitality involves extending a welcome to people in all three circles, regardless of their familiarity or background.
By practicing hospitality, we can not only bless others but also experience the transformative power of God’s love in our own lives. Like the other spiritual disciplines we’ve explored, hospitality requires intentionality, and as Jesus demonstrates, it also demands sacrifice and a genuine desire to connect with others.
Reflection Questions
- How does Dennis’ explanation of hospitality align with your own understanding of this spiritual discipline? Have you ever considered hospitality as a way to deepen your relationship with God and others?
- What are some of the challenges or obstacles you may face in practicing hospitality? How can you overcome these barriers and create a more welcoming environment?
- What are some of the ways in which you can be more hospitable to your friends, family, and acquaintances? Consider specific actions you can take to make them feel welcome and loved.
- How can you extend hospitality to strangers and those who may be marginalized or excluded from your community? Are there opportunities to serve others in need?
- How can you balance hospitality with your own needs and boundaries? It’s important to set healthy limits and avoid burnout.
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from October 13
- “I Thank God”
- “Honey in the Rock”
- “Firm Foundation (He Won’t)”
- “Christ Be Magnified”