MICAH 6:8

But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbour, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don’t take yourself too seriously— take God seriously. (MSG)

TO PONDER

The word used in the New Testament translated as ‘hospitality’ is the Greek word philoxenia, which is made from two words ‘philo’ (love) and ‘xenia’ (stranger) when combined translates to ‘love of stranger’ which is an ‘eagerness to show hospitality’. 

This past week we have looked at a couple of times where Paul has reminded us to ‘practice philoxenia’ with our church family (Romans 12:13) and to make sure we don’t ‘forget to show hospitality to strangers’ (Hebrews 2:13)

In today’s verse we see the (Minor) Prophet Micah reminding God’s people what it is to be a follower/disciple of God and then we see some 800 years later the Apostle Paul mirrors the teachings of Micah, including the ‘love of stranger’ (placing the needs of others a head of our own).

If we jump forward over 2800 years after those words written by Micah, his reminder of what a disciple is still echo in our lives in 2024.

PRAYER:  Almighty God, your love of stranger displayed daily towards me is a constant reminder of the grace you have called me to reflect to everybody I encounter daily, whether they are family, friends, or strangers, I am empowered by your grace to show your hospitality.  Amen.

Today's devotion written by Danny Brock, LifeWay Westside