Why Being a Good Host is So Important!

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3 John "Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God. 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. 8 We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth."

 The letter of 3 John is a very short letter and very specific in its theme.  The apostle John is commending Gaius to the church and specifically that they might welcome him as a brother in Christ.  The other overarching theme is "hospitality".  Hospitality is a very important theme in the New Testament.  We know from church growth research that how we welcome someone into our church makes a huge impact and can determine whether they come back or not.  Some say that a person's experience from their car to their pew is a huge determinant of how they view the church.  As they say "first impressions leave a big mark".  

 I was at a party last with a friend of ours who is a great host.  It was a surprise party for another friend of ours.  He spent the whole evening making sure everyone was having a good time.  He had games planned for us to play, and even karaoke on his big screen TV. (That was embarassing LOL)  It was obvious he and his wife had taken the time to think about what would be critical the factors in everyone having a good time!  I believe this example shows how important it is for Christians be good hosts.  Hospitality also would include reaching out to outsiders and making them feel at home.  This could even extend to cross cultural sensitivity to those newly immigrated, or those who have trouble with the English language. 

 Jesus recognized hospitality with his friends Mary and Martha, and referred to a good host as saving the best wine for the last.  Jesus also welcomed outsiders and outcasts and made them feel at home in His presence.  It is interesting the word "hospitable" comes from the word "hospital".  Someone has said, "The church should be a "hospital for sinners" not a "mausoleom for saints".

 Take some time as you move into 2019 to be a good host to all the guests God brings into your life! As the Spirit of Christ moves through you, it will be Jesus welcoming them through you.   

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