Hospitality - 2 "Being the Good Host or Hostess"

Flock of sheep at Sardis, (Sahilli) Turkey

In almost every culture being the good host brings a reputation that brings a smile of satisfaction. The owner of the house reluctantly closes the door after the guests leave, opens his arms and joyfully hugs each of the family members. It's been a great event.

Abraham was a person who showed such generosity. He was a wanderer, following his flocks from one place to another. I imagine Abraham on a hot summer day after he's taken a herd to fresh pasture. He comes back, wilting in the heat and then ... three men walk by.

"The LORD appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day." Genesis 18:1 He offered them water and asked a servant to chose the best animal. They needed something to eat before sending them on their way. It took a few hours, maybe several, before the hot meal was ready. Middle Eastern time is called hospitality time. For hours, Abraham and his servants waited upon the strangers.

But, surprise, surprise! What Abraham gave to the Lord wasn't nearly as precious as what the Lord gave to Abraham! The Lord (that's LORD in the Bible, meaning YHWH - I take it to mean that this is a pre-Incarnation appearance of the Lord Jesus) informed Abraham and Sarah that within a year she would give birth to the promised son.

WOW! His offering hospitality resulted in a wonderful relationship. He was in the presence of the Lord and received an amazing promise.

Consider another example: Job, the richest man for miles around counted hospitality as one of his key virtues. Listing his good qualities, he said, "(T)he men of my household have never said, 'Who has not had his fill of Job's meat?' No stranger had to spend the night in the street, for my door was always open to the traveler." Job 31:31,32. Wealthy Job, before he lost it all, made sure his table was ready for both his servants and strangers.

Painting on a wall in a Coptic Church, Cairo, Egypt

What makes for a good host?
Here are ten things to think about.

1. Hospitality is a way of serving others. Yes, food is important, but your welcome - more so!
2. Events can be both spontaneous and planned. 3. Know that Biblical themes are woven into every part of the meal, from preparation to conversation.
4. Honor the guests instead of having them honor you.
5. Know why you open your house to family, friends and strangers within your gates.
6. Reflect the love of God by welcoming people, even when everything doesn't turn out perfectly. 7. Expect messes and kids and spilled drinks.
8. Listen for the heartbeats of your guests, showing a genuine desire to get to know who they really are.
9. Don't be surprised if people turn up early, or come late.
10. Leave all talk of status and self-importance aside. Make the event about others.