A Banquet for All
Generosity and Hospitality
Reflection By Scott Stoner
Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.
- Luke 14:21 (NIV)
We began our focus on hospitality and generosity this week by reflecting on Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the beautiful words of the Magnificat from the Gospel of Luke.
Jesus’ birth defied all norms—born not in a palace, but in a stable to a young peasant woman. This reversing of norms is repeated throughout Jesus’ life, as in God’s world, the first shall be last, and the last shall be first.
We see this in Jesus’ Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15–24), where he paints a stunning image of God’s hospitality. When the original invitees cannot attend the party, the host extends an invitation to the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame—those who in Jesus’ time were rarely invited to dinner parties, but who would deeply appreciate the invitation.
The parable teaches us that God’s hospitality, like the host’s, is unexpected, freely offered, and extravagant. It is hospitality not based on status, achievement, or social standing. God’s hospitality is transformational, not transactional. A Christian practice of hospitality calls us to extend beyond our comfort zones and embrace all with God’s abundant love. God’s vision of hospitality is radical—it intentionally includes those whom society marginalizes or overlooks.
Making it Personal: Who might be missing from our “guest lists” in our social circles, homes, and churches? What fears might keep us from expanding our comfort zones? How does this parable speak to you about hospitality?
Weekly Integration: Looking back over this week’s focus on hospitality, which aspect challenged you most? Which daily practice felt most natural or meaningful? How might you continue to expand your vision of hospitality beyond Advent?