How does Judges 19:5 illustrate the importance of hospitality in Christian life? Setting the Scene The Levite has been lodging several days in his concubine’s father’s house in Bethlehem. Each morning he thinks about leaving; each day the father urges him to stay a little longer, pressing food and fellowship on him first. Scripture Focus “On the fourth day they got up early in the morning and the Levite prepared to depart, but the young woman’s father said to his son-in-law, ‘Refresh yourself with something to eat; then you can go.’” (Judges 19:5) What We See About Hospitality • Intentional care: The father doesn’t offer leftovers; he urges the traveler to sit, rest, and be filled before facing the road. • Unhurried generosity: Departure can wait until strength is renewed. Hospitality is not rushed. • Practical love: He meets a tangible need—food for the journey—showing that love is demonstrated, not merely stated (cf. 1 John 3:18). • Covenant mindset: In ancient Israel, welcoming a guest safeguarded the guest’s life. The father sees it as his sacred duty to protect and provide (cf. Genesis 18:1-8). Why Hospitality Matters for Us Today • Affirms our shared dignity as image-bearers. • Opens doors for Gospel witness (Luke 19:5-10; Acts 16:15). • Strengthens the body of Christ—“Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13). • Reflects God’s own heart: He welcomes sinners, feeds them, and sends them out renewed (Psalm 23:5). Practical Steps to Cultivate Hospitality – Keep flexible margins in your schedule so fellowship is never an inconvenience. – Prepare your home as a place of safety: a clean seat, a warm meal, a listening ear. – Offer before guests ask—“refresh yourself, then go.” Anticipate needs. – Include strangers as well as friends (Hebrews 13:2). – Practice cheerful, not grudging, service (1 Peter 4:9). – Pray beforehand that every visit will point people to Christ, the ultimate Host (Revelation 19:9). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Genesis 24:31—Laban to Abraham’s servant: “Come, blessed of the LORD… I have prepared the house.” • 2 Kings 4:8-10—The Shunammite builds a room for Elisha. • Luke 24:29-30—Disciples invite the risen Jesus to stay; He breaks bread, their eyes are opened. • Acts 28:7—Publius welcomes Paul for three days and sees healing flow from that kindness. Conclusion Judges 19:5, though set in a dark chapter of Israel’s history, shines with a simple, brilliant truth: God values hospitality. One father’s insistence on feeding a weary traveler illustrates the timeless call to open our tables and our hearts. As we do, we mirror the Savior who invites, “Come, for everything is now ready” (Luke 14:17). |
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