Does everyone need to practice hospitality, or is it a special gift for just a few?

Isaiah 58:7Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help.

Matthew 25:35-36“‘For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’”

Luke 14:12-14Then he turned to his host. “When you put on a luncheon or a banquet,” he said, “don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the righteous, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.”

Romans 12:13When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.

Hebrews 13:2Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!

1 Peter 4:9Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.

3 John 1:5Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you.

While some believers are specially gifted with hospitality, all believers are called to practice hospitality as best we can. Very basic acts of kindness encourage and strengthen others. Hospitality is also an expression of gratefulness for what God has done for us.