Tip of My Iceberg

Having raised six children, our home has some space that has always been used. Even as our kids were growing up, we’d make room for people who needed a place to stay for a day, a week, or even a year.

Our family grew comfortable with extra people staying with us. I’ve been so grateful that none of them ever demanded a lot of personal space or felt compelled to protect their belongings. It hasn’t always been perfect, but my kids have shown a considerable amount of generosity in sharing our home.

So, no one was surprised when thirteen college kids came to stay with us during their Spring Break. It was two of our grandkids and their friends, a friendly, congenial group of guys and gals that have been more than grateful to have a place to stay so they can enjoy whatever their hearts desire here in central Florida. The beds are full, we have some extra blow-up beds and two large beanbag chairs that are cozy-town comfortable for a few of them.

It’s been enjoyable watching them cook and clean up together, hang out around the house having discussions, and the laughter that erupts unexpectedly.

It’s contagious. I have no idea what they’re laughing about, but it makes me smile.

Hospitality is a fascinating enterprise. You invite people into your home, allowing them to share your space. It’s meant to be friendly and generous, not something done out of a sense of duty but delight.

It’s no wonder that many Middle Eastern countries greatly value hospitality; they bring people into their homes with an attitude of respect and goodwill. Japan, India, Greece, and many Asian cultures are also known for their warmth and graciousness in inviting people into their homes. There’s a genuine willingness to welcome strangers with politeness and gentleness, which is a way of valuing people.

Guess what culture isn’t known for its hospitality? If you guessed Americans, you’d be correct. We’re a culture that values our personal space and a sense of entitlement that doesn’t often include others.

Jesus spoke frequently about hospitality, for He experienced the gracious kindness of others and reminded people that sharing what we have is an excellent way to show love to others. Mary and Martha, along with their brother Lazarus, frequently hosted Jesus and His disciples; their home was one of acceptance and warmth.

He often accepted the hospitality of those the religious leaders would call unfit. Jesus encouraged people to be kind to those who weren’t the most lovable. “‘When you put on a luncheon or a banquet,’ He said, ‘don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.’” Luke 14:12-14

It’s easy to think of being repaid for our kindness to others. It might be a stretch to offer hospitality to those who can’t possibly repay you. But it’s the right thing to do.

These college students won’t repay us with invitations to their homes. That’s not possible, nor would it be something we’d expect. Inviting them into our home was something we could do because we have the space to do it.

I’m learning that extending hospitality is open-handedly offering what God has given us so generously. The friendly feet that enter our door are people of value whom we should love without hesitancy.

It’s not always convenient, but it’s the right thing to do.