“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
– Acts 20:35
Text: Acts 28:1-10, 1 Kings 17:8-24, Psalm 128:1-2
Let’s talk about unexpected guests… I’ll go ahead and say it- generally, I’m not a fan of random drop-ins. There’s nothing like the unexpected knock at the door. Come to my house unexpected and you’ll likely find me peeking out from a window to see who’s there. Debating, welcome them in… or pretend I’m not home.
Remember Publius from Acts 28 last week? The whole island is healed because of the welcome extended to strangers. The island is transformed by radical hospitality.
And the widow in Zarephath from 1 Kings 17? She gives Elijah, a complete stranger, food and drink despite the fact that she only has enough for herself and her son. She is a mom whose son falls ill, and because she had offered such unusual kindness, Elijah petitions the Lord for healing.
This woman opened her door to an unexpected guest and received blessing herself because of her willingness to live generously. Her kindness yielded healing for her household.
We receive blessing in the welcome.
When we extend ourselves in kindness for others, often we are the ones who receive the greater blessing.
Kinda makes you want to open the door more often, doesn’t it?