Scripture to Read: Hebrews 13:1-3
Love is the central theme of all of God’s
Word. Our Lord Jesus Christ made sure this was clear in
Matthew 22:34-40. Jesus said that the greatest commandment
is to “…Lord your God with all your heart, and
with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Then Jesus said
the second greatest commandment is just like the first,
and then He said this, “You shall love your neighbor as
yourself.” So, to love each other is something that should
continue throughout our lives. God brings this command
up again in Hebrews 13:1, reminding us that we need
to keep on loving each other. As we love others, part
of the action step is not to forget to show hospitality to
strangers as well, especially among other believers. Even
though we may not know people well, to show that we
are followers of Christ we must choose to be friendly and
gracious to others, even strangers. Showing hospitality to
strangers, in today’s culture, is more difficult but not impossible.
We must use discernment but still seek to help
others in need. God even says that we may have hosted
an angel and not known it. Hosting an angel may seem
like something God would not do anymore, but His Word
says it and God has not changed. Finally, God tells us not
to forget those in prison, those persecuted for their walk
with Christ. Many in the world are still persecuted today
for their faith. We must not neglect to pray for them and
minister to their need.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about love, hospitality
and those in prison?
2. What are some practical ways you can be obedient to
our lord in all of these areas?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!