A third reason why Christians are called to practice hospitality is because of the example that Jesus himself gives us. In John 13, Jesus shows us the full extent of his love by washing his disciples feet, an important customs that symbolized the moment when a stranger became a guest. Jesus often served as a gracious host, both to his friends (like in John 13), as well as strangers (like when Jesus fed the 5,000 in Matthew 14).
After washing the disciple's feet, Jesus tells us that we will be blessed when we follow in his footsteps.
As I Have Done For You
John 13:1–17
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November 21, 2021 • Bryan Fojtasek
When Jesus sat down to have dinner with the Pharisees, he took the opportunity to teach them something about the kind of people God is inviting to his table. It's not just the religious experts and wealthy leaders of the community, but the poor, the outcasts, even the strangers on the road that God is inviting in. The lesson for us is clear: God has invited us to his table, even though we don't deserve it, and we need to make room for everyone else that God is inviting to be part of his Kingdom.
The Least of These
November 7, 2021 • Bryan Fojtasek
A second important reason why Christians are called to practice the ministry of hospitality is found in Matthew 25:31-40. Jesus teaches us that whatever we do for the least of these, we do for him. Welcoming strangers, feeding the sick, clothing the hungry--when we care for others, Jesus receives that as if we were doing it all for him personally.
Join a Shepherding Group!
November 3, 2021
Westside recently started a new ministry called Shepherding Groups! During this Wednesday Bible Study, Bryan shares about what these are, how you can participate, and a few more thoughts on the inspiring passages our groups have been studying together over the past few weeks.