Love in the Abstract
Come, you blessed of My Father … for I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you have me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to me. (Mt. 25:34-36)
NOTE: THIS POST HAS BEEN REMIXED AND INCLUDED IN GOD’S KITCHEN.
In an affluent society, the debate between welfare and generosity gravitates towards cold, hard cash. But Jesus’ call goes beyond our bank balances into hearts and even, gasp, into our homes. Steve Wilkins writes:
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[1] Steve Wilkins, Face to Face: Meditations on Friendship and Hospitality.
July 1st, 2012 at 2:53 am
About a year ago I was talking to a professional rapper and he was telling me about the history of hip-hop. Most people, when thinking of hip hop, generally just think of the music (similar to how most people, when they think of God, only consider the Father and don’t think in Trinitarian terms). But he said in its broader meaning, there are three elements to hip hop: rap, graffiti, and break dancing (Wikipedia says there is a fourth–DJing, but that could be lumped in with the rap, perhaps). Whenever I hear there are three of something, I try to uncover the Trinitarian connection, if there is one. Your model above helps: Word=rap (audible), Sacrament=graffiti (visible), Government=break dancing (practical).
July 1st, 2012 at 10:45 am
Even rappers are made in the image of God. I guess any culture expresses itself through “trinitarian” avenues.
July 1st, 2012 at 1:27 pm
That’s hilarious. We can’t escape our bounds.
I liked this especially since the Holy Spirit laid hospitality on my heart this morning. This whole picture of a house is profound. We had friends over today who are hurting and they were really late, but I’m glad we did.
Here’s a question: Invite Mormons or JW’s in or not? I did once in the past, and my wife did not feel peace and security when I told her what I had done. I also later heard a sermon about why not to; because they may use your hospitality to pry their way into your neighbors home, “The ______ family let us in…” my thinking at the time was that they were not yet to the point of being “False Teachers” since they were only 18 or so. I will not have them in again. I ought to have handouts for THEM.
July 2nd, 2012 at 11:44 pm
There have been some JW’s and Mormons that I have talked with outside. Then there were others that we had indoors for a few sessions. The most memorable was a group of three young Mormons who returned a number of times. I discovered that a friend on the other side of town was having the same discussions with them. It is doubtful they would leave Mormonism any time soon (too much to lose), but they were certainly taking mental notes. So, my advice, as with anyone you are witnessing to, follow the Spirit. I think John’s command against welcoming heretics into your home has more to do with church discipline. JW’s and Mormons are pagans, and our hospitality toward them is a taste of the true God.
July 2nd, 2012 at 11:45 pm
But perhaps warn your neighbours. Might be a good reason to witness to them, too!