In what ways can we show hospitality like Jethro's family in Exodus 2:18? Verse in Focus Exodus 2:18: “When they returned to their father Reuel, he asked them, ‘Why have you returned so early today?’” What Jethro’s Family Actually Did • Listened to the daughters’ report of a stranger in need • Acted immediately: “Invite him to eat!” (Exodus 2:20) • Opened their home and table to Moses • Offered ongoing refuge—Moses “consented to stay” (Exodus 2:21) • Integrated him into family life, giving Zipporah in marriage (Exodus 2:21) Timeless Hospitality Principles • Notice people who are alone, vulnerable, or far from home • Respond quickly—don’t let good intentions stall • Provide tangible care: food, shelter, safety • Treat the guest as family, not an interruption • See hospitality as partnership with God’s purposes (compare Genesis 18:1-8) Practical Ways to Live It Out Today • Keep a flexible schedule so you can say, “Come share a meal” on short notice • Stock simple pantry items (bread, soup, coffee) for unexpected guests • Offer a spare room or couch to missionaries, college students, or those in crisis • Invite newcomers at church to lunch the same day you meet them • Drive a visitor home after service, help them run errands, listen to their story • Host small‐group meetings, allowing your home to be ministry space • Celebrate holidays with international students or coworkers who have no local family Heart Attitudes That Sustain Hospitality • Gratitude—remembering how Christ welcomed us (Romans 15:7) • Generosity—sharing God’s resources, not guarding “my” stuff (Proverbs 11:25) • Humility—placing others’ comfort above personal convenience (Philippians 2:3-4) • Joy—“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9) Scriptures Echoing the Call • Hebrews 13:2: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels without knowing it.” • Romans 12:13: “Share with the saints who are in need; practice hospitality.” • Matthew 25:35: “I was a stranger and you welcomed Me.” • Isaiah 58:7: “Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house?” Living the Legacy of Jethro’s Family Every open door, warm meal, and listening ear proclaims the gospel of welcome. By acting promptly, sharing generously, and treating strangers as family, we mirror the kindness Reuel’s household extended to Moses—and point people to the greater Host who prepares a place for all who come to Him. |
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