What lessons on hospitality can we learn from Deuteronomy 2:29? The Passage in Focus “just as the descendants of Esau who live in Seir and the Moabites who live in Ar did for us, until we cross the Jordan into the land that the LORD our God is giving us.” (Deuteronomy 2:29) Key Observations • Israel humbly asks permission, pledging to stay on the road and pay for necessities (v. 28). • Prior kindness from Esau’s and Moab’s descendants becomes the model they cite. • The request is temporary—“until we cross the Jordan”—showing respect for boundaries. • God’s promise of a homeland frames the whole appeal; hospitality cooperates with His plan. Hospitality Lessons Drawn from the Verse • Treat travelers with dignity – Israel does not barge in; it appeals courteously (see Genesis 18:2–5; Hebrews 13:2). • Offer help without exploitation – Food and water are supplied for fair payment, illustrating honest exchange (Leviticus 19:13). • Remember previous kindnesses – Israel recalls earlier hospitality and seeks to pass it forward (Luke 6:31). • Honor others’ property and limits – Respect for territory and resources is built into the request (Exodus 22:5). • Recognize God’s bigger story – Welcoming travelers aligned hosts with God’s unfolding redemption; resisting it (as Sihon did, vv. 30-31) opposed Him (Matthew 25:35-40). Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 10:19—“Love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” • Romans 12:13—“Contribute to the needs of the saints and 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 have entertained angels without knowing it.” Putting It into Practice Today • Greet newcomers at church or in the neighborhood with genuine warmth. • Offer tangible aid—meals, lodging, transportation—while honoring personal boundaries. • Keep hospitality balanced: generous yet respectful of others’ space and resources. • Let past experiences of being helped shape your readiness to help others. • Remember that every act of welcome participates in God’s larger redemptive work. |
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