A "Yes" Face
One time US President Thomas Jefferson and his friends were traveling on horseback. They came to a swollen river where the raging waters washed away the bridge. Each rider fought against the rapid currents as he crossed the river. It was very dangerous to cross the river.
At that time, a traveler who was not part of the team came. He watched as several riders struggled across the river. Then the stranger asked President Jefferson if he would give him a ride. His companions were surprised when the president agreed. When they made it safely to the other side, one in the group asked the stranger, “Why did you select the president?” The man was shocked. He had no idea it was the president who helped him.
“All I know,” he answered, “Is that the word “No” was written on the face of most of you. His was a ‘Yes’ face.” (Adapted from the illustration database of the Biblical Studies Foundation)
The Bible places much value in hospitality. One of the qualifications for a pastor is that “he must be hospitable” (Titus 1:8, NIV. See also 1 Timothy 3:2). The Message had translated it this way: He must welcome people. That’s why I join our greeters in welcoming our guests. It goes without saying that like pastor, like people. I’m really blessed whenever I our guests comments that our church is very friendly. I would even get text messages from visitors who thank us for being so welcoming.
Romans 12:13 commanded us: Practice hospitality. So, if we are not friendly, we are actually sinning. Again, let me quote from The Message: be inventive in hospitality. Therefore if you have any suggestions or creative ideas on how we can make the church more hospitable, please do tell us.
Hebrews 13:2 gives us this incentive: Do not neglect hospitality, because through it some have entertained angels without knowing it. (The NET Bible) That’s why let us extend a hand to shake another’s. Smile a lot. During the fellowship after the service, I encourage you talk to our guests. Listen more. Make them feel at home. We are not just trying to make an impression. We are actually serving the Lord through them. For Jesus Himself taught that when we welcome people, we are actually welcoming him. I was a stranger and you invited me in… I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. (Matthew 25:35, 40)
Thus, brethren, let’s keep up the “yes” face!
At that time, a traveler who was not part of the team came. He watched as several riders struggled across the river. Then the stranger asked President Jefferson if he would give him a ride. His companions were surprised when the president agreed. When they made it safely to the other side, one in the group asked the stranger, “Why did you select the president?” The man was shocked. He had no idea it was the president who helped him.
“All I know,” he answered, “Is that the word “No” was written on the face of most of you. His was a ‘Yes’ face.” (Adapted from the illustration database of the Biblical Studies Foundation)
The Bible places much value in hospitality. One of the qualifications for a pastor is that “he must be hospitable” (Titus 1:8, NIV. See also 1 Timothy 3:2). The Message had translated it this way: He must welcome people. That’s why I join our greeters in welcoming our guests. It goes without saying that like pastor, like people. I’m really blessed whenever I our guests comments that our church is very friendly. I would even get text messages from visitors who thank us for being so welcoming.
Romans 12:13 commanded us: Practice hospitality. So, if we are not friendly, we are actually sinning. Again, let me quote from The Message: be inventive in hospitality. Therefore if you have any suggestions or creative ideas on how we can make the church more hospitable, please do tell us.
Hebrews 13:2 gives us this incentive: Do not neglect hospitality, because through it some have entertained angels without knowing it. (The NET Bible) That’s why let us extend a hand to shake another’s. Smile a lot. During the fellowship after the service, I encourage you talk to our guests. Listen more. Make them feel at home. We are not just trying to make an impression. We are actually serving the Lord through them. For Jesus Himself taught that when we welcome people, we are actually welcoming him. I was a stranger and you invited me in… I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. (Matthew 25:35, 40)
Thus, brethren, let’s keep up the “yes” face!
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