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Loving others in the church (4)
The Bible encourages us to be hospitable to others. That can mean providing for their physical needs, perhaps by inviting them out for coffee or having them round for a meal. The Bible says, ‘Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.’ Hospitality might seem easier for some people than others. We might not have much money or a home of our own that we can invite people to. We might struggle with socialising, and prefer time on our own. But there’s always something we can do. It might mean we need to step out of our comfort zone, or be creative with how we do it, but we can still follow the call to be hospitable to others. It’s not about making fancy, Instagram-worthy dinners, or competing with others to be the most welcoming. Instead, it’s about following Jesus’ example to be servant-hearted. Serving others is a great way to love them, and to become more Christlike. When Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, He took them by surprise. ‘When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you’ (John 13:12-15 NIV). Jesus was the Son of God, but took the position of a servant when washing their feet. His humility gives us a clear example to follow – as He served others, so should we.
What Now?
Show hospitality towards someone over the next few days. Maybe treat them to a coffee, or invite them round for a meal.
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