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The Way of Brotherly Love

August 31, 2022

By Brooke Holt

“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.” Hebrews 13:1-3

Yesterday we considered Jesus’ parable of the Great Banquet and the calling to invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind (Luke 14:13). The writer of Hebrews will continue this instruction of building God’s kingdom through the care of those considered the lowly in this world. The instruction begins in chapter thirteen with brotherly love. Are you really supposed to not just invite these people but love them? Absolutely!

And if these words of Scripture are not enough to get you going, then maybe the thought of entertaining angels will. That person you are not inclined to speak to but feel God’s nudging to invite to lunch or Bible study, or that person who doesn’t smell so good or look like you do, may not be a person but an angel of the Lord. How awful to get to heaven and realize you missed a divine opportunity to have lunch with an angel!

The point is God cares for these people, and he invites you to care as well. These people may be in prison, the soup kitchen, or the house next to you. They may be the most annoying person in your workplace. Whoever they are, the Lord invites you to let him fill your heart with love for that person and show them the hospitality and care you would show the Lord himself or one of his angels.

The Lord would remind you of who you were before his grace. You, too, were broken and needy. Just as the Lord sent someone to share the Gospel with you, he will now allow you to share that Gospel message with another. As D.T. Niles wrote, “Christianity is one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread.”

Reflection:

Will you share the bread God has provided you today? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resource:

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