Real Hope: Service & Hospitalityعينة

## Welcome It was a bitter-sweet moment in life. Bitter, as we were having our final meal (at least for a few years) with someone who had grown remarkably close to our family. Sweet, as we were extremely proud of who this person had matured into. It was only a couple of years before this moment that my wife and I noticed this young, impressionable, and bubbly international student in the foyer of our church. Through a series of ‘God incidents’ we decided to open our home and welcome them into our family. It was awkward at first, but with each interaction walls slowly came down and trust built up. It took a decent amount of prayer, time, effort and emotional energy to build a healthy relationship. No one could have predicted what was to come next for this student. Heartache, health challenges and the loss of a parent. I believe the Spirit of God orchestrated our worlds to intersect so we could support our guest through the challenging season ahead. In today’s individualistic and polarising world, living with open hearts and homes may seem ‘old school’. When Jesus walked this earth, He welcomed people into His world. His hospitality and service shocked the so-called spiritual leaders of the time, and cost Him His life. As we go about our full lives, would you be willing to make the effort to welcome someone into your world? It may seem daunting at first; however, with the guidance of the Holy Spirt and wisdom by your side, I believe you can have influence in someone’s world. #### Written by DRUVI PERERA