A Moment To Breathe: Find Rest In The Messنموونە

Radical Hospitality, Extravagant Love

“What punishment do you think the young man deserves?” the officer asked my mother-in-law. A troubled teenage boy had broken into her car and stolen her purse.

“I think he should be required to come to my house for Sunday dinner,” she said. The police officer was shocked. Radical hospitality extended.

Sunday dinners were always interesting at my in-laws. You never knew who would be there; neither did she. If she knew of anyone eating alone or someone who just needed to be loved on – including a young transgressor – she’d invite them to dinner. When we openly welcome strangers, outcasts, and the neglected, we’re showing them their value and worth in Christ. This is the heart of true hospitality.

My mother-in-law lived the gospel until her final breath. I know that one day we’ll be reunited again, around another table for supper – at the great heavenly banquet, the glorious feast with our Redeemer, the wedding supper of the Lamb. It will be a joyous celebration of His divine kingdom, a new heaven and a new earth. There will be no more death, no more tears, and no more suffering. Together we will gaze upon the Bridegroom and behold the full radiance of His glory.