A Restful Retreat: a devotion (Ep.42)

When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.- Romans 12:13 (NLT)(Listen for my naughty kitty meowing at the end!)I sat looking out the window at a snowy meadow, the evergreen trees along the edges competing with the deciduous ones to see who would be coated the most quickly by the falling snow. I looked back at the lovely white room, restful in its simplicity.I was in my mid-twenties tunneling through university on the opposite side of the continent from my parents. A dear couple at church offered to host me for a weekend away from the city in their beautiful country home. It offered me a much needed break away from everything and I gladly accepted. Now decades later, I might not remember their names or faces, but I will never forget their generosity toward me. And I know that the Lord will never forget either.Our verse for today reminds me of this couple. “When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.”You don’t need a lovely country home to practice hospitality. You just need a heart that wants to bless and serve people. Your furniture may not match, and your cups may be chipped but people will be blessed by your welcoming presence. Our family has hosted students from around the world, and it was rewarding to hear them express that they felt like part of the family.We are in the same family as our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us be on the lookout as to who needs a little bit of “home” comfort.Dear Abba, Thank you for welcoming me permanently into your family. Help me to be ready to welcome other needy siblings into my life and home.Throughout this day: Think about people you know at church and other Christian friends. Who could use a meal or a weekend away from their stressful life? Pray about what God would have you do and step out in faith to make it happen.Originally published October 7, 2025 https://thelife.com/devotionals/a-restful-retreatSubscribe to all my writing and podcast episodes at sheyvahrex.comemail me at [email protected]'m looking forward to hearing from you! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sheyvahrex.substack.com