This act of selflessness reminded me of the hospitality I experienced in my own upbringing, where my parents exemplified the gift of hospitality with open hearts and open doors. Their unwavering commitment to prioritizing others over themselves left a lasting impact on me. This devotion explores the biblical foundation of loving others first, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and biblical examples. 

My parents definitely had the spiritual gift of hospitality. We had a large oak tree in our front yard with mismatched chairs, used to sit and conversate with anyone who dropped by to visit with my parents. Mom always had a fresh homemade cake or pie sitting on the counter, just waiting for those visitors, along with fresh squeezed lemonade and sweet tea sitting in the fridge. 

No matter what my parents were doing when guest arrived, they instantly stopped and headed to the chairs in the front yard to give the visitors their full attention. Children were also taught to stop what they were doing to greet the guest and then gladly went on their way as the adults talked. Dessert and drinks were served, and conversation flowed freely for whatever time the visitors were there. 

That same hospitality was expected from the children to their guest. Whenever we had someone come to our home, we were taught that our friends took priority over our wants. That meant that if we had one bed, they got it, if they wanted to play a game different than we recommended we played their game and if they wanted to stay up late instead of sleeping, we stayed up late. Our mission was to make them feel like we put them above ourselves. Every friend was to go home with a desire to come back because it was such a great experience.

Hospitality is more than just welcoming guests into our homes; it’s an expression of love and selflessness. Just as my parents welcomed visitors with open arms and genuine care, we are called to extend hospitality to others, prioritizing their needs above our own. 

Romans 12:10-13 says “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” 

Throughout the Bible, we encounter individuals who exemplified hospitality, putting others’ needs before their own. Abraham welcomed three strangers into his home and lavishly provided for them (Genesis 18:1-8). The Shunammite woman showed hospitality to the prophet Elisha by providing him with a room in her house (2 Kings 4:8-10). In the New Testament, Lydia opened her home to Paul and his companions, offering them lodging and care (Acts 16:14-15). 

Jesus Himself modeled the ultimate act of hospitality by welcoming all who came to Him, regardless of their background or status. He prioritized serving others, demonstrating love and compassion in every interaction. 

Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” 

In our families, churches, and communities, let us emulate the example of Christ and the biblical characters who practiced hospitality. By prioritizing the needs of others above our own comfort and desires, we reflect the selfless love of Christ and create an atmosphere of warmth, acceptance, and genuine care. 

In a world focused on self and personal comfort, may we be reminded of the transformative power of hospitality. Let us follow the biblical mandate to love others first, welcoming them with open arms and hearts. Through acts of selflessness and generosity, we reflect the love of Christ and create spaces where all feel valued, accepted, and loved. Parents and Grandparents teach your families to focus on others more than they focus on self. In a world where are taught is all about us, we need to be like Jesus and love other more than we love ourselves.  By the way that is what God tells us to do.  As we prioritize others above ourselves, may our homes, churches, and communities become beacons of God’s love and hospitality in a world in need of hope and compassion.