Open Doors. Open Hearts.Sýnishorn

A display of generosity.

A guest in most African contexts is welcome at any time without a prior appointment. A Zimbabwean Shona proverb, ‘mueni haapedzi dura’ means ‘a guest does not exhaust your reserves’. This highlights the truth that sharing what you have with others, including a stranger or an uninvited guest, won’t cause you to suffer a major loss. A Rwandese proverb, ‘Umushyitsi akurisha imbuto’, means ‘a visitor makes you cook seeds reserved for planting’. When you use your best and most precious resources serving visitors, you get to enjoy those special resources too.

In Luke 10:38-42, we read the story of Jesus at the home of Martha and Mary, a story that speaks to generous hospitality as understood in my African context. Jesus was on his way and decided to enter Martha and Mary’s home without prior arrangements, yet a generous welcome was still extended. This demonstrates that hospitality should not be based on the abundance of our resources but rather on the needs of those we welcome. Hospitality, in this context, goes beyond merely offering a meal; it signifies a readiness to care, support, welcome, and be available.

In the world, there are some who have more than enough to spare, yet are reluctant to part with what they have. There are others who have only just enough and find it hard to invite others in to share. Whether we have a store full of resources or only a little left in our cupboard, we are called to throw open our doors and welcome guests in anyway. Jesus calls us to be available to serve, even when we feel unprepared or under-resourced. He asks us to provide for others when there is a need, not just when it is convenient or comfortable for us.

True hospitality as generosity stems from a generous heart and caring love that wishes the best for everyone, including strangers.

For reflection:

Reflecting on this short story, what motivates your acts of hospitality today?

Does your hospitality demonstrate your preparedness, availability, and willingness to serve others without limitations?

A prayer for today:

Dear Lord, as I consider those who may unexpectedly show up on my doorstep, help me to show them a kind of hospitality that is generous—a kind that extends love and care and a desire to welcome them as an expression of your boundless love and grace.

AMEN