Hospitality - the lost practice

Of the key practices for Christians is Hospitality (φῐλοξενῐ́ᾱ) - "love of strangers". Dr Smither has done an excellent job of giving a overview of hospitaily in mission

- In the Old Testament

- In the New Testament

- at the Lords table

- in the work of Missionary Monks

- Contemporary models

- Reflections and Practice

Basically Dr Smither is advocating for the long lost practice of hospitality - and not just to other Christians and he craftily paints the historic narrative of Christian hospitality across a the centuries.

Our culture in America shouts fear the neighbor and hate the enemy. But Our Lord gave a new set of commandments and the church has usually done a great job- except I see more 'fear' now days - to the point where I think more admonition in this area is needed. At least the clear commands cannot be skipped like any other.

All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ, for he himself will say, 'I was a stranger and you welcomed me' (Matt 25:35).

Benedict of Nursia

Some quotes -

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