Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it (Hebrews 13:2).
The weather was hot, and the streets were windy and crowded as we made our way through the village in search of a specific location. I was on a short-term visit to Pignon, Haiti, with our mission partner Many Hands, and we were making a home visit to deliver a bag of groceries as well as prayers to a family. Our guide parked the cart and said we’d have to walk the rest of the way.
As we made our way down an alley and finally into a partially fenced and darkened courtyard, our guide called from the dark of a shack and our phones lit the way. Finally, a young man crawled along the dirt floor, and we were all overcome with emotion. We took turns saying prayers over Frantz and doing our best not to cry as we left.
Hebrews 13 is the concluding chapter of this book, and it makes a final case for the sufficiency and superiority of Christ. Its author emphasizes the importance of real love coupled with tangible actions. Showing hospitality to strangers, having empathy for prisoners (especially those imprisoned for their beliefs), respecting marriage vows, and being content with what you have are all given specific mention.
Today, instead of the animal sacrifices of the past, we offer our time, talent, and treasure. If you are looking for ways to put love into action, check out the many mission opportunities available at your Hope campus.
Reflection:
- How can you show hospitality in even the smallest way?
- How can you learn to be satisfied with what you have today?
- Is there a mission partner at Hope that you would like to learn more about?