The best room

Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.   — 1 Peter 4:9

During a January research trip to Germany, I was dismayed to learn that we would be staying at a monastery. I pictured an austere place with no heat, cold stone floors, and hard beds. Instead, I found a warm, welcoming, comfortable room. My colleague said, “The monks believe in treating their guests as they would treat Christ.” Though they don’t live in such comfort themselves, they are content.

Robert Herrick, a 17th-century English poet, wrote:

Christ, He requires still,

wheresoe ’er He comes,

To feed, or lodge,

to have the best of rooms:

Give Him the choice;

grant Him the noble part

Of all the house: the best of all’s the heart.

It may seem easier to welcome Christ into our heart than to open our life to others. Whether it’s a room in our home or time in our schedule, too often we treat people as intruders rather than guests.

The apostle Peter wrote: “Above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’ Be hospitable to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:8-9).

We honor Christ by giving Him the best room, our hearts, and by offering willing hospitality to others.  — David McCasland

I am Yours, Lord, yet teach me all it means,

All it involves of love and loyalty,

Holy service, full and glad surrender.

And unreserved obedience unto Thee!  — Bennett

READ: 1 Peter 4:7-14

To know love, open your heart to Jesus. To show love, open your heart to others.

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 70-71

• Romans 8:22-39