If you have found your way here from my devotion published today at Proverbs 31 Ministry (click here), thank you for stopping by. We open our door wide and say “Welcome!” I pray you are refreshed here. “…refresh my heart in Christ.” Philemon 1:20
Today’s devotion, “The Guest List”, is a practical application of “godly guest list etiquette” from Luke 14:13-14 that the Lord put on my heart several years ago. Just as the Master invites us (the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind) to dine at the King’s table of eternal life, we can extend His love to others (who are poor, crippled, lame or blind) through the blessing of receiving an invitation. Ministering to His “least of these” by opening the door to your heart and home honors Him. “He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Proverbs 14:31
Your invitation and hospitality can soften hurt and hardened hearts to hear and receive the Gospel of God’s love. God does not want any to perish. He desires that His house may be full. As you invite unsuspecting guests to be your guests of honor, be sure to share the Gospel of Christ with them as the main course. May they be seated and feast at the King’s table forever! “Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love him?” James 2:5
Sharing your heart, hospitality and home is a wonderful way of splashing others in God’s gracious love. For a little fun here on Thanksgiving, I’d like to give the gift of Karen Ehman’s book “A Life That Says Welcome” to one visitor who leaves a comment! What do you do on Thanksgiving? What’s your favorite part of the meal? Who are you looking forward to seeing most? Have you invited any “guests of honor” to join your gathering? Answer one of these questions in your comment (be sure to include e-mail or contact information if it is not in your blogger profile). The recipient of the gift will be announced in a few days!
Do you feel crippled or lame today? The King is inviting you to come and dine with Him. He will renew, restore and refresh you. Open wide the door to your heart and receive His invitation. “I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.” Jeremiah 31:25
“Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” Luke 14:15
Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? James 2:1-5