Spare beds

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. — Hebrews 13:2

In 2004, Casey Fenton co-founded a nonprofit service that helps travelers find a “friendlier alternative” to unfriendly hotels. They find homeowners who are willing to offer their spare beds and couches to others.

The group boasts almost a quarter of a million friendships that have been formed from their service. “The more we network,” said Fenton, “the better chance we have of this world being a better place.”

That service sounds a lot like biblical hospitality. In the final pages of his letter to the Hebrews, the writer instructed believers to practice their faith in Jesus Christ through hospitality (13:2). That was defined by the early Christ-followers as acts of generosity toward strangers.

In the first century, hospitality often included housing a guest. This was hardest to do during a time of persecution. These believers would not know whether the person was a spy or a fellow believer being pursued. But by entertaining strangers, the writer said, they could indeed be inviting a blessing into their homes.

As God’s people, we are called to be hospitable to others as part of our gratitude for the salvation we have received from God. — Marvin Williams

Lord, grant me a loving heart,

A will to give and share,

A whisphered prayer upon my lips

To show I really care. — Brandt

READ: Hebrews 13:1-6

People with a heart for God have a heart for people.

The Bible in one year:

• Isaiah 46-48

• Proverbs 28:1-14