herlucidlife

1 Peter 4:9

“Be hospitable to one another without complaining.” 

God gives the heart posture the action should be performed with. Hospitable means to be friendly or welcome to strangers or guests. We are called to share the gospel and make disciples of many nations, that includes being welcoming and friendly to strangers. This command is not only for people I know or like but this command is for everyone I come into contact with. Without complaining, no grumbling, not a begrudging spirit, no annoyance or dissatisfaction. Gladness is commanded to be in my heart when doing such things. 

I look at the life of Jesus and how He was welcoming to everyone that came into contact with Him. Though Jesus is all knowing these people were strangers to Him and vice versa because they did not have a relationship. He gave all of Himself, literally. In my everyday life, I do my best to be gentle, thoughtful, friendly and warm when in contact with others. I’m thankful because a lot of these things come naturally for me. It’s easy to think of being friendly as being of service. 

I can treat someone well without doing an act of service or giving them anything. The greatest gift can often be genuine interaction. As I’m reading this I’m reminded to slow down during the course of life to have those interactions. Sometimes I’m moving so fast or so focused that I don’t welcome interaction. I’m not complaining, I’m simply not making time for connection to take place. I need to move slower, be a little more intentional about not rushing through life so when interaction happens I can welcome them gently. 

I have plenty of time to be still and allow God to bring genuine connection through friendliness my way.