Radical Hospitality: Embracing Love and Inclusion
Summary
Today, as we gather on the first Sunday of Pride Month, we are reminded that God’s welcome is radically inclusive—embracing every person, every story, every background. Our community is called to embody this divine hospitality, not just in word but in action, extending love and welcome to all, especially those who are different or new among us. The act of greeting one another by name, sharing our lives, and making space for strangers is not just a social nicety; it is a spiritual practice rooted deeply in the story of God’s people.
Reflecting on the Book of Hebrews, we see that hospitality is not always easy or safe. The early Christians faced suspicion, persecution, and real risk when they welcomed strangers, yet they were urged to persist in mutual affection and to love the stranger—philo-xenia, the love of the outsider. This call is as urgent today as it was then, especially in a world where fear and suspicion of the “other” are on the rise. True hospitality is not naive; it recognizes the risks but chooses love over fear, knowing that in welcoming the stranger, we may be welcoming angels, or even Christ himself.
Hospitality is not just about grand gestures but is cultivated in the small, daily acts of kindness and openness. It is a practice that shapes us, making us more like Christ, who welcomed all—tax collectors, sinners, foreigners, and outcasts—into his circle. The story of the couple who, even in their old age and frailty, remembered to say, “You always have a home here,” challenges us to make hospitality a habit so ingrained that it becomes part of our very being.
We are also reminded that hospitality is mutual. When we open our hearts and homes, we are not only giving but also receiving—often in ways we cannot anticipate. The table of Christ is the ultimate symbol of this mutual welcome: all are invited, all are fed, all are made one. As we come to the table, we confess the times we have failed to welcome, and we receive again the grace that empowers us to go out and do better. May we leave this place knowing we are loved beyond measure and called to share that love with every person we meet.
Key Takeaways
- Hospitality as Risk and Blessing
Welcoming others, especially strangers, always involves risk—of being misunderstood, taken advantage of, or even endangered. Yet, the blessing that comes from opening our hearts far outweighs the potential cost. In choosing to love rather than fear, we participate in God’s transformative work, both in our lives and in the lives of those we welcome. [34:16]
- Hospitality as a Spiritual Practice
True hospitality is not a one-time act but a discipline cultivated through repeated, small gestures—greeting a newcomer, holding a door, sharing a meal. These daily practices prepare us for greater acts of courage and compassion, shaping our character and making us more Christlike. Over time, hospitality becomes second nature, a reflex of grace. [48:12]
- Solidarity with the Marginalized
Standing with those who are imprisoned, marginalized, or feared by society is a profound act of hospitality. It means risking our own comfort and reputation to be present with those who are suffering, just as Christ did. This solidarity is not about charity from a distance but about entering into the struggles of others as if they were our own. [46:13]
- Mutuality in Hospitality
Hospitality is not a one-way transaction; it is a mutual exchange where both host and guest are changed. When we welcome others, we often find ourselves receiving unexpected gifts—new perspectives, deeper relationships, and even glimpses of the divine. The story of the couple who fed their enemies reminds us that in giving, we also receive, and that hospitality can ripple out to transform entire communities. [51:10]
- The Table as the Center of Welcome
The communion table is the ultimate symbol of God’s hospitality—open to all, without exception. Here, we are reminded that Christ’s love knows no boundaries and that we are called to extend that same radical welcome to others. As we receive the bread and cup, we are empowered to go out and be agents of grace and inclusion in a divided world. [01:00:03]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[02:10] - Pride Month and Equality Stoles
[04:30] - Online and In-Person Community Connections
[07:00] - Celebrating Community Events and Prayer Vigil
[10:41] - Gratitude for Music Ministry and Announcements
[13:00] - Reflections on Hospitality in “Virgin River”
[18:30] - The Risks and Rewards of Welcoming Strangers
[22:45] - Hospitality in the Book of Hebrews
[27:00] - Historical Context: Fear and Suspicion
[34:16] - Loving the Stranger: Philo-xenia
[39:00] - Solidarity with the Imprisoned and Marginalized
[46:13] - Personal Story: Visiting in Prison
[48:12] - Practicing Hospitality: The Duke Professors’ Story
[51:10] - Feeding Enemies: Radical Compassion
[56:00] - Extending Welcome to Immigrants and Strangers
[01:00:03] - The Table of Christ: Ultimate Hospitality
[01:02:54] - Communion Liturgy and Invitation
[01:14:38] - Sending Forth: Go and Share God’s Hospitality
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Radical Hospitality
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### Bible Reading
Hebrews 13:1-3 (NRSV)
> Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured.
Genesis 18:1-8 (NRSV)
> The LORD appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. He looked up and saw three men standing near him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent entrance to meet them, and bowed down to the ground. He said, “My lord, if I find favor with you, do not pass by your servant. Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. Let me bring a little bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.” And Abraham hastened into the tent to Sarah, and said, “Make ready quickly three measures of choice flour, knead it, and make cakes.” Abraham ran to the herd, and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to the servant, who hastened to prepare it. Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree while they ate.
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### Observation Questions
1. In Hebrews 13:1-3, what specific actions are believers encouraged to take toward strangers and those in prison?
2. According to the sermon, what does the Greek word “philo-xenia” mean, and why is it important for understanding biblical hospitality? [[34:16]]
3. In the story from Genesis 18, how does Abraham respond to the presence of strangers, and what does he do for them?
4. The sermon mentions that hospitality was risky for early Christians. What were some of the dangers they faced when welcoming strangers? [[34:16]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the writer of Hebrews connects hospitality to the possibility of “entertaining angels without knowing it”? What does this suggest about the spiritual significance of welcoming strangers? [[34:16]]
2. The sermon describes hospitality as a “spiritual practice” that is cultivated through small, daily acts. How might these small acts prepare someone for greater acts of courage and compassion? [[48:12]]
3. The story of the couple who fed their enemies during wartime was shared in the sermon. What does this story reveal about the mutual nature of hospitality and the way it can transform both giver and receiver? [[51:10]]
4. The sermon talks about standing in solidarity with those who are marginalized or imprisoned. Why is this kind of hospitality described as risky, and what does it mean to “enter into the struggles of others as if they were our own”? [[46:13]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenges us to greet newcomers by name and make space for strangers. Think about your recent experiences at church or in your neighborhood—when was the last time you intentionally welcomed someone new? What did you do, and how did it feel? [[10:41]]
2. Hospitality often involves risk—of being misunderstood, taken advantage of, or even endangered. Is there a situation in your life right now where fear is holding you back from welcoming someone? What would it look like to choose love over fear in that situation? [[34:16]]
3. The couple in the sermon had a habit of saying, “You always have a home here.” What is one practical way you could make this kind of welcome a habit in your own life or family? [[51:10]]
4. The sermon reminds us that hospitality is mutual—we receive as much as we give. Can you recall a time when you welcomed someone and were surprised by what you received in return? How did that experience change you? [[51:10]]
5. The table of Christ is described as the center of welcome, open to all. How does participating in communion shape your understanding of hospitality and inclusion? Is there someone you feel called to invite to your table, either literally or figuratively? [[01:00:03]]
6. The sermon mentions showing solidarity with those who are marginalized, such as immigrants or people in prison. What is one step you could take this month to stand with someone who is often left out or overlooked in your community? [[46:13]]
7. The sermon encourages us to confess the times we have failed to welcome others. Is there a specific relationship or situation where you feel you could do better? What is one thing you can do this week to extend hospitality in that area? [[01:00:03]]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for open hearts, courage to welcome the stranger, and the grace to both give and receive hospitality in the week ahead.
Devotional
Day 1: Hospitality as Love of the Stranger
Hospitality is not just about being polite or friendly; it is a radical, biblical call to love the stranger, to open our hearts and lives to those we do not know, even when it feels risky or uncomfortable. In a world that often encourages fear of the unknown, true hospitality means moving beyond suspicion and embracing others as beloved children of God, remembering that in welcoming the stranger, we may be welcoming God’s own messengers. [34:16]
Hebrews 13:1-3 (ESV)
Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.
Reflection: Who is a “stranger” in your life today—someone you might normally overlook or avoid—and how can you intentionally extend a gesture of welcome or kindness to them?
Day 2: The Blessing of Mutual Hospitality
When we practice hospitality, we not only bless others but also receive unexpected blessings ourselves; our lives and communities are transformed as we open our doors and hearts, discovering that the act of welcoming others is a gift that returns to us in profound ways. The presence of each person shapes the whole, and without your unique contribution, the community is incomplete—hospitality is a mutual exchange that enriches everyone involved. [10:41]
Romans 12:13 (ESV)
Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Reflection: Think of a time when you welcomed someone new or were welcomed yourself—how did that experience change you or your community, and what blessing did you receive in return?
Day 3: Practicing Hospitality in Small and Big Ways
Hospitality is a spiritual practice that grows stronger with repetition; by starting with small acts—like greeting someone you don’t know or holding a door open—you prepare your heart for greater acts of welcome and compassion, making hospitality a natural part of your daily life. Over time, these small gestures build a foundation of love and readiness for when God calls you to deeper acts of generosity and inclusion. [48:12]
Luke 16:10 (ESV)
“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.”
Reflection: What is one small, practical act of hospitality you can practice today to make someone feel seen and valued?
Day 4: Solidarity with the Marginalized
True hospitality means standing in solidarity with those who are suffering, imprisoned, or marginalized, even when it is uncomfortable or comes at a personal cost; it is about seeing others’ pain as our own and being willing to be identified with them, just as Christ identified with us. This kind of empathy and presence can break down barriers and offer hope and dignity to those who feel forgotten or alone. [46:13]
Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV)
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.
Reflection: Who in your community or world is suffering or marginalized, and what is one concrete way you can show up in solidarity with them this week?
Day 5: God’s Table: Radical Welcome for All
At the heart of Christian hospitality is the truth that God’s table is open to everyone—no barriers, no exceptions; Christ’s love welcomes all, regardless of background, status, or past, and invites us to do the same in our lives and communities. As we receive this radical welcome, we are called to extend it to others, making space for everyone to belong and experience the grace that unites us as one family. [01:00:03]
Galatians 3:28 (ESV)
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Reflection: Is there someone you have unconsciously excluded from your “table”—your circle of friendship, your church, or your heart? What step can you take to invite them in and reflect God’s radical welcome?
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