What does Jesus' visit to Bethany teach about hospitality and community today? The Setting in Bethany “While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper,” (Matthew 26:6). Bethany was already famous for friendship with Jesus—Lazarus, Mary, and Martha lived there (John 11; 12:1-3). Simon’s table opens yet another doorway of welcome, showing how Christ’s presence transforms an ordinary house into holy ground. Hospitality that Overcomes Barriers • Simon is still identified by the label “leper,” yet Jesus accepts his invitation without hesitation. • In first-century Judea a leper’s home would be shunned, but Scripture presents this visit as factual history, underlining Christ’s willingness to cross social and ceremonial lines. • By receiving Jesus, Simon also receives the community that travels with Him—disciples, friends, and onlookers (compare John 12:2). True hospitality stretches beyond the guest list we might prefer. Welcoming Presence of Christ Builds Community 1. Rooms fill, hearts open – “So they hosted a dinner for Jesus there” (John 12:2). One household becomes a gathering point for disciples, healed people, and worshipers. 2. Acts of honor inspire others – Mary’s anointing (Matthew 26:7; John 12:3) demonstrates devoted generosity, setting off discussion among the disciples and teaching them about sacrificial love. 3. Shared story, shared mission – Lazarus reclines at table (John 12:2), a living testimony that sparks belief in others (John 12:10-11). When we open our doors, the stories God has written in our lives encourage and strengthen fellow believers. Practical Takeaways for Today • Invite without fear of reputation: Christ modeled eating with the socially marginalized. • Create space where testimonies can be heard: like Lazarus at Simon’s table, let redeemed lives be on display. • Use tangible acts—meals, service, gifts—to communicate value, following Mary’s example of costly perfume. • Remember hospitality is ministry, not entertainment: “…Practice hospitality” (Romans 12:13). • Serve together as a household: Martha’s serving (John 12:2) shows every family member has a role. • Keep the focus on Jesus: His presence is what turns a gathering into Kingdom community. Scriptural Echoes • Luke 10:38-42—Mary and Martha illustrate balance between service and attentive listening. • Hebrews 13:2—“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…”. • 1 Peter 4:9—“Show hospitality to one another without complaining.”. These passages confirm that the Bethany pattern remains the New-Testament norm. Closing Thought Bethany proves that when Jesus is welcomed, barriers crumble, worship arises, and community flourishes. Open doors become open hearts, and ordinary homes become stages where the glory of God is displayed. |
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