Martha

Today's devotion was written by Mary Davis, a Godly woman in my church who has served my family faithfully during the five years we have been at the church.  Last week she made my daughter a cherry pie (her favorite) and my son chocolate chip oatmeal cookes.  Both were delicious and we gobbled them up quickly.

"And there they made Him a supper; and Martha served."  Matthew 12:2a

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entered angels unawares."  Hebrews 13:2

Hospitality, a generous and friendly way of treating people. 

Hospitality...Martha's gift.  Perhaps she didnt' always have her priorities in order.  But who does?

Did you notice that Hebrews uses the word strangers?  Too many times we entertain friends or family...nothing wrong with that, but what about the stranger?  That person you know, but don't know, if you know what I mean.  You might say, "well, that's not my gift."  It doesn't have to be your gift.  Hebrews 13:2 is applicable for all.  Strangers need entertainment too, especially the less fortunate ones.

October is a festive month, a beautiful month full of brilliant color.  Perhaps during this month you would be willing to decorate your table accordingly and invite someone to sit down and share a meal with you...someone you bearly know, but are not afraid to welcome into your home, or maybe someone in the church who is standoffish...someone who just needs to sit at your table and sup with you.

Let's pray.  Heavenly Father, sometimes we fail to venture out of our comfort zone to make new friends.  Your Word says "He that has friends must show himself friendly."  Father, as we come to the end of 2010 help us to endeavor to break all barriers that tend to limit us from venturing out.  Thank you Father, Amen.

Blessings,