As we enter this Fourth Sunday in Lent in our book study of Max Vincent’s “Because of This I Rejoice,” we explore the important Christian value of hospitality. I believe Vincent presents the importance of hospitality in the Christian life very well, and explains Paul’s understanding of how hospitality is woven into nearly every aspect of our Christian lives. Similar to the Christian virtue of “humility,” hospitality seems not to be something that is sought after for its own sake, but something that is encountered by living life in a particularly Christ-centered way. I also appreciate Vincent’s discussion regarding the potential anxiety experienced by some folks at the very thought of doing all the “things that must be done” to be considered “people of hospitality.” He eases our minds by describing “the discipline of joyful hospitality.”

Vincent begins his discussion of hospitality by describing its importance to the early church. With an example meant to highlight society’s contempt for the Christian virtue of love and compassion (lived out as hospitality), he tells the tale of the “crazy Christians” and their support for a man they do not know; a man who was perhaps all too eager to use their compassion for his own purposes. No matter, though, Christ would want them to help the poor, the sick, the lonely, and the prisoner. The early Christians didn’t seem to mind that the powerful and elite had only scorn and contempt, and those they helped may only have had self-serving interests…the early Christians did what they did for Christ, not for fame or to be liked by those in power, or even those they helped. They helped because Christ said, “do unto others, especially the least among you.” A life of hospitality was one that sought to bring Christ to all people, and it was a way that produced much good for many people. Vincent references the work of Donald Riddle, who writes, “hospitality helped grow the early church.” I have read similar works by other scholars; one of my favorite books that makes the same point with some very interesting insights is “The Rise of Christianity” by Rodney Stark (I recommend it highly!) It seems that hospitality is more than just being friendly.

Vincent then describes Paul’s writing to the Philippians in a section titled, “My Son Timothy.” Paul commends Timothy to the Christians in Philippi for two reasons: Timothy is an example for others to follow and Timothy comes to them in the name of Christ. Of the first reason, Vincent writes, “Timothy exemplifies the very type of self-denying humility that Paul has just exhorted them to offer one another.” If Timothy’s life can be an example to them, Paul is confident they will avoid many of the selfish conflicts of the ego in the future. And of Vincent’s second point (Timothy comes in the name of Christ), Paul assures the Philippians Timothy is not coming to “check up on them” or to be sure everyone is doing their part…no, Timothy is coming to them “in the Lord.” He comes not to judge or to correct or to report back to Paul about their conduct…”he comes to share with them in the Lord. Rather than being a burden, his visit is a further sharing in Christian ministry.” Vincent continues to explain the important lesson of Timothy’s visit by explaining the visit provides the Philippians with an opportunity to show hospitality, as described in Scripture. “The idea is reflected in Hebrews, where the author states, ‘extend hospitality to strangers because some have entertained angels unknowingly.'” (Genesis 18:1-8) Vincent then takes up an example a bit closer to home for the Philippians, one of their own: Epaphroditus. Paul exhorts the Philippians to extend their hospitality to him as Paul sends him back to Philippi – Epaphroditus was one of their own, sent as one from Philippi to Paul; and now Paul sends him back to them, as one sent from Paul as a messenger of the Gospel. In this “sending” and “returning,” Epaphroditus is a man transformed by his experience (a journey that almost ends in his death) and a man steadfast in his faith. The Christians of Philippi should welcome him as one sent “in the Lord” but also as an example of one who has done great service for Christ.

Vincent’s final point in this chapter is an important one: what of the anxiety we might feel as we consider the tasks of radical hospitality, as taught by Jesus? I will close with Vincent’s chapter ending words: “Hospitality is more than extending a welcome, a place to stay, or a meal to someone. Hospitality is a way to share with fellow Christians (and others) and to hear about the work of God in places and lives that may not be a part of our normal pathways. Hospitality expands our world and helps us grow in our knowledge and love of God and neighbor.” How might you practice the discipline of joyful hospitality and encounter the Spirit of God in someone you meet in your daily life, and how might that expand your understanding and awareness of what God is up to in your life?