Open for Business

“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” 1 Peter 4:8-9

Years ago, when I took my mom to her doctor’s appointment I discovered for the first time a mobile unit outside the building where mammograms were given. Not only would they perform these procedures in that vehicle, but they would drive it to other places to give other people the option. It was the original concept of bringing something to the person instead of the person going there. Now every city is peppered with different offerings of this same concept. We have food trucks, beverage trucks, boutique trucks and much more. But I believe that Jesus had the original concept. He was the original vessel of hospitality on the go…

Throughout the New Testament we see that Jesus offered Himself and His time as He moved through the day. Never does Scripture describe Jesus having His own home, inviting people in to dine with Him. His invitations for fellowship were usually on the road, in the homes of other people, by the river and in the towns…just living out His daily life.

So, I began thinking this morning, what would our life look like if we moved through our days with our own Hospitality Trucks? What would be on the menu if we pressed the brakes, shifted into park, and opened our window of offerings? A listening ear? Spiritual food for thought? Grace? Compassion and care?

We create our own calendars and are no busier than Jesus was in His day. We need to understand as did He that hospitality and invitation do not have to be complicated, but it does need to be intentional. When cannot look around without seeing someone who needs a smile, an encouraging word, a prayer or just a listening ear. We need to walk with the same spirit Jesus walked with. ‘We learn to make room for one more because He first made room for one more. We initiate, invite, and gather because He did it first. It’s hard to say no to hospitality on the go when God’s asking you to offer whatever is already on your schedule to Him. Take your everyday, ordinary life – your eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life – and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for Him.’ Just Open the Door, Jen Schmidt, p. 48

As we each walk out our calendar this week may we keep our eyes open like Jesus did, and discover ways to offer just a little bit of ourselves. God has placed people with needs all around us if we will just tap our brakes and put our lives in park.