Are you a hugger or a shaker? Do you greet and welcome others with a polite handshake or unrestrained bear hug? As for me, I'm in transition from a shaker to a hugger, thanks to a warm church family of huggers.
A warm welcome consists of more than either a hug or a handshake, according to the pattern of Jesus:
"welcoming them, He began speaking to them about the kingdom of God and curing those who had need of healing." (Luke 9:11)
You'll never find it listed in a proper book of etiquette, but the most gracious welcome that can ever be extended to anyone is to share the good news of the kingdom of God and accompanying compassionate help. This is truly the most caring and welcoming gesture of all.
We find the apostle Paul doing exactly the same thing as Jesus: "And he stayed two full years in his own rented quarters and was welcoming all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered" (Acts 28:30-31). The lesson from Paul and Jesus is that a warm welcome is closely associated with sharing the message of the kingdom.
There is nothing quite like the warmth of a home, and no more perfect setting for sharing the kingdom good news. It is in the safety and warmth of a home that the hope and promise of the kingdom shines brightest. I reflect back on the many kingdom conversations I have had with others in my home and theirs. These have been wonderful times of encouragement, excitement, and anticipation. Questions have been answered, and possibilities explored.
Hugs and handshakes convey love and welcome, but nothing conveys compassion like conversations about the coming kingdom. I eagerly anticipate the next opportunity I will have to welcome someone into my home, or to be welcomed into their home, and discuss this all-important topic.
The next time you have opportunity to welcome someone, remember that it's more than a handshake or hug; it's sharing the great hope and good news of the kingdom of God.
Steve
A warm welcome consists of more than either a hug or a handshake, according to the pattern of Jesus:
"welcoming them, He began speaking to them about the kingdom of God and curing those who had need of healing." (Luke 9:11)
You'll never find it listed in a proper book of etiquette, but the most gracious welcome that can ever be extended to anyone is to share the good news of the kingdom of God and accompanying compassionate help. This is truly the most caring and welcoming gesture of all.
We find the apostle Paul doing exactly the same thing as Jesus: "And he stayed two full years in his own rented quarters and was welcoming all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered" (Acts 28:30-31). The lesson from Paul and Jesus is that a warm welcome is closely associated with sharing the message of the kingdom.
There is nothing quite like the warmth of a home, and no more perfect setting for sharing the kingdom good news. It is in the safety and warmth of a home that the hope and promise of the kingdom shines brightest. I reflect back on the many kingdom conversations I have had with others in my home and theirs. These have been wonderful times of encouragement, excitement, and anticipation. Questions have been answered, and possibilities explored.
Hugs and handshakes convey love and welcome, but nothing conveys compassion like conversations about the coming kingdom. I eagerly anticipate the next opportunity I will have to welcome someone into my home, or to be welcomed into their home, and discuss this all-important topic.
The next time you have opportunity to welcome someone, remember that it's more than a handshake or hug; it's sharing the great hope and good news of the kingdom of God.
Steve
posted by steve @ 7:36 AM
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