14. "What can be done for her?" Elisha asked. Gehazi said, "Well, she has no son and her husband is old." 15. Then Elisha said, "Call her." So he called her, and she stood in the doorway. 16. "About this time next year," Elisha said, "you will hold a son in your arms." "No, my lord," she objected. "Don't mislead your servant, O man of God!" 17. But the woman became pregnant, and the next year about that same time she gave birth to a son, just as Elisha had told her.
Someone said “Some people bring blessings where ever they go, and others whenever they go.”
When Elisha was willing to bless the woman and her husband, she wasn’t showing hospitality for reward. She was content with what she had, indicating any needs she had probably would also be met by her extended family, but Elisha’s servant realized they had no children of their own. Gehazi recognized the desire of their heart which only God could give and that was a son. With the authority from God, Elisha pronounced the blessing that this time next year they would have a son. God blessed them above and beyond their imagination for their kindness.
When we carry out God's work there is blessing. There is the immediate blessing of fellowship. There is relationships with the guests and the growth of knowing and sharing as friends. This is a gift not to be taken lightly or ignored. To love and be loved, to feel worthwhile is the high goal of all people. It is a special gift indeed to have a few good close meaningful friends. This is holy hospitality. It is for God's grace and goodness.
Because of her faithfulness in service, she was blessed far greater than she gave. God blessed her with the desire of her heart. Hospitality is a ministry. We take what we have and share it. When we give it to the Lord and seek to serve others, because of our relationship with Jesus, it is holy hospitality. God's spirit is in it.
Scripture talks much of hospitality. Hebrews 13:2 says, "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." 1 Peter 4:8-10 "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms."
I know that not all churches do well in showing hospitality. I know that not all Christians are good examples of friendliness. There is One who differs from people. He is the example of Holy Hospitality. God invites us into a relationship with Him. He made all the provisions. Only instead of the blessing being His, it is ours over and over again.
Not only having God's fellowship here and now, but for all eternity. It is because of His offer that He wants His children to demonstrate holy hospitality one to another.
Watch what He does.
