The end of all things is near;
therefore,
be alert and sober-minded for prayer. Above all,
maintain constant love for one another,
since love covers a multitude of sins.
Be hospitable to one another
without complaining.
1 Peter 4:7-9 CSB
But wait there's more in Peter's live-like-the-end-is-near instructions.
He says to be hospitable to one another.
Easy. I have coffee with people, catch up with people, sometimes have them over.
But the word for hospitable is "philoxenos", to be
hospitable, loving strangers.
Peter is saying don't just be hospitable to people you know and care about, we're not at Level 4 now!
How broad is my dinner table? Is it only filled with people I know, people I care for?
How much room have I made for those in need who cross my path?
Why does Peter have to remind his readers to do this without complaining?
Maybe his readers were like me, quick to say how busy I am, how we should catch up "some time", how I don't know what to say to people I don't know, it'll be awkward...
Yes loving people can be awkward, costly.
But if I really want to follow Jesus, I know his love for me cost everything.
He did it without complaint
And he's preparing a banquet.
#monday
#Godsgym
#lovepeople
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