In the commentary
on the Rule of St. Benedict that was read today at morning prayer, Sr. Aquinata
Boeckman used the phrase “the hospitality of our God.” The psalms often remind
us that everything we have is a gift from God, but I had never before considered
that reality from the perspective of God offering us hospitality.
Persons who are
skilled at offering hospitality welcome us into the warmth of their home, make
an effort to consider our every need, provide delicious food and drink, and
spend time visiting and recreating with us. God offers us all this and more. As
Eleanor Roosevelt said, “True hospitality is giving the best of yourself to
your guests.” God not only spreads a table before us with the marvelous fruits
of creation but offers us the best of Godself by welcoming us into that space where
God dwells in loving relationship with Christ and the Spirit; as Jesus said, “Where
I am you will be” (Jn 14:3).
Joan Chittister
has noted, “Hospitality is simply love on the loose.” Because God’s love is
always on the loose, it makes sense that God is constantly offering us
hospitality. Perhaps that is another meaning of the phrase “The Lord of hosts”!
At any rate, it is up to us to be thoughtful guests by offering gifts and
thanks to our eternal host and emulating God’s remarkable hospitality by
extending it to others.
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