We’re not talking Marriott, Hilton or Hyatt, but we are talking HOSPITALITY. The Gospel of John gives us a hint that Jesus could do a mean barbecue (John 21:9) and that he liked a good party, especially ones that lasted more than six hours (Cana). For us, too, it’s the season to barbecue, to entertain guests and friends, to party, to relax. At this time of year, the Church also takes a break from its intense liturgical festivities to celebrate the great mysteries of everyday life, the non-special. We call it Ordinary Time.
So, what will we do to become more Christ-like this summer? How about exercising the biblical virtues of hospitality and kindness and all that they embody.
Hospitality in Judaism was elevated to a moral command. To refuse to give hospitality was disgraceful. The hospitable host went out to meet his guests, greeted them, washed their feet, gave them food, drink and shelter, protected them while they were with him, and accompanied them for a distance after they left (See Abraham, Genesis 18:1-8). In the New Testament St. Peter places hospitality as one of the gifts of the Spirit (1 Peter 4:9ff)
I recall going to an interview for a teaching position and encountering an order of religious brothers with whom I immediately felt welcome and comfortable. It didn’t take long to realize that they possessed the charism (Spirit-filled gift) of hospitality. I took the job and still to this day thank them for sharing that gift. In a world so divisive, cold, unwelcoming, and full of suspicion, a dose of biblical-like hospitality would be welcome.
Jesus was a good host (Mark 6:30-32). When we invite and welcome people, be they friends or strangers, to our home, we identify with the God of hospitality. Jesus was a person who knew the importance of balance in his life as he worked to bring about the Kingdom/Reign of God. Throughout his ministry Jesus “went out” to people who needed him and “took in” God in deserted places in prayer.
Jesus invited his disciples to quiet little parties to restore their energy, to enliven their prayer life and to relax in each other’s company. Jesus was a model host. He barbecued for his friends, and also supervised the arrangements for the Last Supper.
Where did he get his training and sensitivity? He had good instincts about when to withdraw from ministry and when to be a good host for friends.
Enter Mary. How often had Jesus experienced his mother offering hospitality? How often did Mary and Jesus clean up together after a party and talk about it? Mary must have told him how important it was to be hospitable, to celebrate with friends and then go back to work refreshed.
St. Thomas Aquinas tells us, “It is against reason to be burdensome to others, showing no amusement and acting as a wet blanket. Those without a sense of fun, who never say anything ridiculous and are cantankerous with those who do, these are vicious and are called grumpy and rude.” (Summa Theologica II-II, Quest. 148, Art. 4). The great Church theologian knew that balance.
Hospitality reveals a kind heart and St. Paul tells us that, “Love is kind.” Let us strive to mix hospitality, kindness, and prayer, to be like God and be refreshed so we can go back to the Lord’s work. As the Church celebrates the everyday mysteries of God’s life with us, let us remember that everyday things are all moments of grace.
Don Russo Ph.D.