By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture: “Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.” (Luke 14:12–14).
Dear Hearts,
I greet you in the name of Jesus Christ, the One who gives us all reason to be thankful. As another Thanksgiving season arrives, we must be grateful for the familiar traditions that bring families together. Some may travel from home to home, reconnecting with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and the blessings God has poured into our lives. These gatherings remind us of the goodness and faithfulness of God from year to year.
Most of us know what it means to receive kindness and hospitality, especially during this season. In time, we have the chance to return that kindness by hosting others in our own homes. But Jesus reminds us that when we invite those who can invite us back, we have already received our reward. This leads us to a question worth considering, “Who needs to be invited to your Thanksgiving dinner this year?”
Interestingly, in the aforementioned Passage of Scripture, Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is dining at the home of a respected Pharisee. Those in attendance listened carefully, hoping He might say something they could challenge. Instead, Jesus spoke directly to the heart of true hospitality. In fact, He told them not to invite only their friends, relatives, or wealthy neighbors, those who could repay them. Instead, He encouraged them to welcome “the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind,” those who had no means of returning the favor. Interestingly, Jesus gives this kind of instruction because this kind of invitation reflects God’s own generosity toward us.
With this in mind, this Thanksgiving or any other time, consider setting one more place at your table. Think of someone who may be lonely, overlooked, or struggling. A simple invitation could be the very blessing God uses to lift their hearts and yours. So, as you prepare for the holiday, remember, kindness is more than a meal. “It is love in action.”
May we honor Christ this Thanksgiving Season by inviting not only those we know, but also those who need to experience His kindness through us.
Jesus Saves!
