Becoming a Person of WelcomeSample

Receiving Hospitality from Others

When given the option, most of us would prefer to be the host. Being the host allows us to manage what is happening and keep control over time, space, comfort, and more. That is why being the guest can be so uncomfortable. When we are guests, we relinquish control over time, space, comfort, and more.

Even as there were times when Jesus was rejected, there were moments when he was lavished with generosity. And often, this generosity came from unexpected people and places.

Today’s Scripture reading looks at a time when Jesus was welcomed into a home, yet another guest decided to lavish Jesus with what he needed for his journey ahead. This guest was criticized, and Jesus quickly spoke up on her behalf, sharing about the value of her gift.

When others wanted to judge and criticize the gift-giver, Jesus welcomed the gift and corrected those who couldn’t see the true value of it. We are often tempted to judge someone’s hospitality or generosity. We believe it can be used more effectively or differently. Yet generosity is not about amounts or effectiveness but about the heart behind it.

How are you tempted to judge another’s generosity?

How can you welcome the gifts of others without leveraging them for efficiency or effectiveness?