October 2018

Little Things from Lisa

1 Peter 4:7-11 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

In the New Testament, we hear repeatedly about the importance of Christian hospitality.  Not only is it commanded for every follower of Jesus as expressed above by the Apostle Peter.  But this type of fellowship is repeated by Paul in Romans 12:13 when he says, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”  The literal interpretation of the verb “practice” is to pursue, or a continuous activity.  And the Greek word for hospitality translates to “love of strangers.”  So we are to live in an attitude of constant pursue of loving others.

And we have the opportunity to work on that together as we join our two worship services together into one.   Please remember that we were all once strangers and sojourners until Christ took us into His care.  Now we are a fellowship of believers called together by God Himself to minister to His people.

Going forward, please be certain to practice Christian hospitality.  Actively pursue loving each other when we gather.  Be welcoming, give up your seat, introduce yourself and be gracious if you already have met. If we do this well, then God will be praised through our living as Jesus Christ instructed. And we will be blessed with continued ministry together in Christ.  Praise God for His indescribable gift.