Reflection: Who doesn’t love to move house?
Me.
But we did, last week, and this means new neighbours.
Because I am a kind, thoughtful and generous follower of Jesus my first thought was, “I hope our new neighbours aren’t too intrusive”. Like, sure, it would be great if they took our bin out when we go away, but I don’t want them to be dropping in unexpectedly when I haven’t had time create the façade of domestic perfection required to sell the story of my award-winning life.
Because for some reason, at the same time as having a yearning to be known and be loved, I want to be independent, self-reliant and isolated.
I’m happy to know you, but I’m not sure I want to need you.
As for loving deeply and offering hospitality without grumbling… let’s just call that a work in progress!
And yet, if I don’t know you, and you don’t me, I think it’s hard to know God, because he created us for community.
Let’s know each other, let’s live in the fullness of life that God intends.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the gift of community and hospitality. Teach us to be friends to the neighbours you put in our path, show us who we can offer hospitality to today.