OFFER RADICAL HOSPITALITY

   

 

 

 

In our spiritual searching, we think of ourselves far too frequently as individuals, without any connection to others.  Yet, we are always part of a larger community and our actions always affect others, whether we realize it, pay attention to those affects, or not.  The essential meaning of the Greek word koinonia is community, or fellowship, a spiritual worldview that is somewhat countercultural today. Koinonia is a practice of hospitality that recognizes our connection in Christ.

 

When we truly open ourselves to the needs of others – even for a brief moment in helping a stranger – we are changed. Such radical hospitality is rooted (from the Latin radix) in the Gospel commandment that compels us to love God, and also to love our neighbor (Mt. 22:36-40.) When we reach out in faith to the needs of others, we change from being simply consumers of life to living fully in the Body of Christ. God prospers the work of our hands. Our Koinonia becomes example for others to “pay it forward” as well.

 

What are the simple ways you might override your fears and reach out to those in need within your workplace, neighborhood, or community? 

The Five Loaves ™     2012                                                                                                            

This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. – John 15: 12-13

Click on any practice for a more detailed description.