How does 1 Samuel 28:23 illustrate the importance of hospitality in Christian life? The Core Passage “However, he refused, saying, ‘I will not eat.’ But when his servants and the woman urged him, he listened to their words. So he got up from the ground and sat on the bed.” (1 Samuel 28:23) Setting the Scene • Saul is spiritually depleted after consulting the medium at Endor. • The woman, though outside Israel’s covenant community, instinctively offers food and comfort. • Saul’s servants join her in urging him to receive the meal so he can continue his journey. • In the midst of Saul’s darkest night, an act of practical kindness shines. Observations on Hospitality in the Passage • Hospitality transcends status and background—the woman shows grace to Israel’s king even though her profession is condemned (Leviticus 19:31). • The initiative comes from the host, not the guest; true hospitality begins with an open heart. • Persistence matters. The woman and the servants “urged him,” illustrating that genuine care sometimes requires gentle insistence. • Receiving hospitality is as important as offering it. Saul’s eventual acceptance allows the blessing to be completed. Timeless Principles • Hospitality is a concrete expression of love for neighbor (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39). • Providing refreshment meets both physical and emotional needs (James 2:15-16). • God can use even unlikely people to model virtues His people should practice (cf. Luke 10:33, the Samaritan). • Refusing hospitality can rob both giver and receiver of God-appointed grace. Accepting a meal humbly acknowledges dependence and community. Hospitality in the Broader Witness of Scripture • Abraham prepared a feast for three strangers—“While they ate, he stood by them under the tree” (Genesis 18:8). • The widow of Zarephath shared her last meal with Elijah and saw God’s provision multiply (1 Kings 17:15-16). • Jesus often taught and revealed Himself at tables (Luke 19:5-7; John 21:12-13). • New-Covenant commands: – “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13) – “Be hospitable to one another without complaining.” (1 Peter 4:9) – “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…” (Hebrews 13:2) Practical Takeaways • Keep your table open. Simple meals offered in love can bring strength to weary souls. • Be ready to serve even those with whom you profoundly disagree; kindness may be the first step to repentance or healing. • Persist kindly. People in crisis often resist help; gentle urging can break through isolation. • Receive graciously. Allowing others to care for you acknowledges God’s provision through His servants. • Expect God to work through ordinary acts. A loaf of bread and a seat at the table can become instruments of divine encouragement. Personal Reflection The woman of Endor reminds us that no act of hospitality is wasted. As we open our homes, schedules, and resources, the Lord uses everyday kindness to strengthen the faint, reconcile the estranged, and display His steadfast love. |
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