What can we learn from Samuel's hospitality towards Saul in 1 Samuel 9:22? Setting the Scene • Saul, searching for lost donkeys, arrives at Ramah unaware that God has already told Samuel, “You are to anoint him ruler” (1 Samuel 9:16). • Samuel meets him at the city gate, invites him to a sacrificial feast, and verse 22 says, “Then Samuel took Saul and his servant, brought them into the hall, and seated them at the head of the guests, about thirty in number.” What Samuel Actually Does • Personally escorts Saul and his servant into the hall—no delegate, no delay. • Seats them in the place of honor, ahead of about thirty invited guests. • Treats a complete stranger as a distinguished guest before anyone knows Saul’s future role. What We Learn about Hospitality • God-directed hospitality is intentional. Samuel “took” Saul—he doesn’t wait for Saul to find his own way. • True hospitality elevates others. Honoring Saul publicly prepared him—and Israel—to see God’s choice (cf. Proverbs 18:16). • Hospitality can be prophetic. The head-seat foreshadows Saul’s coming kingship, illustrating that acts of welcome can announce God’s purposes. • It embraces the servant too. Samuel honors both Saul and the unnamed attendant, teaching that kindness is not reserved for the “important” alone (James 2:1-4). • It happens in community. Thirty witnesses observe Samuel’s generosity, modeling how shared meals can reinforce covenant life (Acts 2:46-47). Character of Samuel Revealed • Obedient—responds immediately to God’s word (1 Samuel 9:17). • Generous—offers the best portion (v.24) without hesitation. • Discerning—sees beyond outward appearance to God’s calling (1 Samuel 16:7, a principle he later voices to David). Implications for Us • Invite with purpose. Look for people God is nudging you to welcome—new believers, seekers, even “strays” on a mundane errand. • Give the seat of honor. Let guests sense their value by practical gestures: a prime seat, the best food, undivided attention (Romans 12:10). • Include everyone at the table. Hospitality is measured by how we treat the “servant” as well as the “Saul.” • Expect God to work. A simple meal may launch someone into their calling; therefore, host with faith, not formality (Hebrews 13:2). Supporting Scriptures • Romans 12:13: “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” • 1 Peter 4:9: “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” • Hebrews 13:2: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” • Proverbs 11:25: “A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Living It Out • Look this week for a “Saul” God places in your path; extend intentional kindness. • Prepare your table—or your time, your resources—with the same expectancy Samuel had, trusting that every act of hospitality can partner with God’s unfolding plan. |
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