The following piece was first written for the July 19, 2026 pew sheet at St Augustine’s Anglican Church. I share it here again in the hope that it may continue to encourage and bless.
Hospitality is far more than good manners or opening our homes to friends. In the Scriptures, hospitality reflects the very heart of God. Hebrews 13:1–3 urges us to continue in brotherly love, to show hospitality to strangers and to remember those who are suffering and in need. We are called to welcome others because God has first welcomed us. Jesus' parable of the great banquet in Luke 14:12–24 gives us a beautiful picture of God's generous and surprising hospitality. The king prepares a magnificent feast and invites many guests. Yet those who were first invited refuse to come, each offering an excuse. The king's response is remarkable. He does not cancel the banquet or keep the table for a privileged few. Instead, he sends his servants into the streets and lanes to bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. When there is still room, he sends them even further so that his house may be full. This is radical hospitality. A king would never normally invite people from the streets to his royal banquet. Yet this king does, because he reflects the generous heart of God. God is not only rich in glory; he is rich in grace. He delights to welcome those who could never earn a place at his table. Where are we in this parable? If we belong to Christ, we are among those who have accepted the King's invitation. We are recipients of God's astonishing grace, welcomed not because we deserve it, but because of his mercy. What a privilege it is to share in the banquet of God's kingdom! Yet the parable does not end with our receiving God's welcome. Having experienced such generous grace, we are now called to extend it to others. As we continue reflecting on our theme 'A Church for Others,' let us consider how we might offer Christ-like hospitality to those around us – especially those who are lonely, overlooked or in need. Some among us are already doing this in wonderful ways. Others may be wondering how to begin. May God help us all to be creative, generous and intentional, so that through our welcome others may catch a glimpse of the generous welcome of God's kingdom.
