Embracing Hospitality: The Power of Kindness and Community

Let’s talk about something that many of us dread: moving. I don’t know about you, but I can’t stand the whole process. From boxing things up to cleaning and driving the moving truck, it’s just not enjoyable. I always find myself behind the wheel of that heavy truck, and honestly, I wish I didn’t have to. Some people seem to move so often that I wonder if they actually enjoy it. For the first few years of our marriage, we moved around quite a bit, from community to community in Texas, before returning to Oklahoma. It felt like we were relocating every couple of years, and frankly, I was done with that. This is probably why we’ve been in the same home for about fourteen years now, and hopefully, it will be another fourteen before I have to pack up again.

Just thinking about packing up all the stuff we collect over time makes me anxious. Who really enjoys moving? Anyone? No? Of course not! And then there’s the added pressure of helping friends move. If you lend a hand, you’re basically obligated for life to help them move, too. It’s a vicious cycle!

The Unexpected Kindness

Imagine this: you’re at your most stressed-out moment during a move, and suddenly a neighbor shows up with a warm plate of chocolate chip cookies, asking if they can help. In that moment, doesn’t that feel like an angel sent from above? It’s one small gesture that can completely change your day. When someone steps in with kindness, it can brighten even the darkest of moments.

That’s something I’ve tried to carry with me. I’ve made it a point to do something special for new neighbors. Now, I’m not much of a baker, so I usually grab a few cookies from Eileen’s on my way home and stop by to say hello. Most of the time, the response is warm and welcoming, but there have been a few moments where I’ve been met with confusion.

The Impact of Hospitality

It’s fascinating how a small act of kindness can have such a high impact. This is the essence of hospitality—seeing someone in need and doing something nice for them, even if it requires a bit of effort. Whether it’s helping them move furniture or bringing a small gift, it’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting involved.

This past year, we partnered with a group called Bless Every Home. We’ve been praying for our neighbors, and recently they introduced a new mover program. This program connects us to a database that informs us of new residents in our area. I can pull up a map and see who has moved in within the last six weeks. Isn’t that cool? It gives us insight into who we can reach out to and pray for.

Building Connections

When you meet someone new, you can mention that you’ve been praying for them. We also send postcards to newcomers, inviting them to join us at Coffee Creek. It’s all about creating connections and building relationships. Over the next couple of weeks, we’re going to dive deeper into the idea of rolling up our sleeves and serving others.

One powerful image comes to mind: Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. This act of humility and service is a perfect example of kindness in action. Jesus taught us how to serve, and every act of kindness we perform can be a way to share the love of Jesus with those who may feel distant from Him.

The Loneliness Epidemic

Recently, an APA poll revealed a shocking statistic: about one in three Americans reports feeling lonely every week. This disconnect is alarming, especially as technology advances. We’ve become more connected digitally, yet we’re feeling more isolated than ever. Even as we make strides in technology and communication, our emotional connections seem to be dwindling.

Mother Teresa once said that the most terrible poverty is loneliness. It’s a profound statement from someone who worked with the most impoverished. We have the opportunity to combat this loneliness through our community. As a church, we can connect and create genuine relationships that help others feel they belong.

Making the Most of Opportunities

In Colossians, Paul encourages us to make the most of our chances to share the good news. This isn’t about personal gain; it’s about connecting with others and helping those who feel far from God. The invitation to belong is open to everyone, regardless of their past or current situation.

We often get caught up in who belongs and who doesn’t, but the truth is that everyone is invited to the table. God welcomes all, and it’s our role to extend that invitation. The parable of the great feast illustrates this beautifully. Many people make excuses and miss out on the invitation, but our job is to ensure that everyone knows they are welcome.

The Call to Hospitality

Hospitality is our primary role. It’s about being welcoming and open-hearted. We need to dispel the myth that some people aren’t welcome. This is a lie from the enemy. No matter what someone’s background is, they are welcome in our community.

As Easter approaches, let’s remember that the resurrection of Christ is the foundation of our faith. It’s essential to share this message with those around us. Paul reminds us to accept each other just as Christ accepted us. The goal of acceptance is to bring glory to God, not to elevate ourselves.

Practical Steps for Connection

This week, I challenge you to show hospitality intentionally. It’s easy to say someone is welcome, but it’s more impactful to demonstrate that through actions. When you see a neighbor moving in, don’t just say “welcome” from a distance. Go over, introduce yourself, and offer help. Bring a small gift. That’s how friendships are built.

Time is our most valuable resource, and by investing it in others, we create meaningful connections. Look critically at your calendar and identify moments where you can redeem your time to show kindness. Whether it’s during a meeting, at a sporting event, or in your neighborhood, seize those opportunities.

Invitation to Share

Consider inviting someone to sit with you at church this Easter. It’s a simple act that can ease the anxiety of walking into a new place. Many people find it nerve-wracking to step into a church, and having a friendly face can make all the difference. Let’s ensure that everyone knows they are welcome in our community.

As we gather, let’s create an environment where people feel valued and loved. This is a God-sized vision for our community, and it starts with each of us rolling up our sleeves and getting involved.