Romans 12:13– Sharing and hospitality

…Contributing to the needs of the saints, pursuing hospitality…

The words above are the latest in a series of twelve statements of what love is and does (:9). Being moved by God’s love allows us to contribute to the needs of the Saints. Elsewhere, Paul widens the circle (Gal. 6:10) and writes that we should do good to all, “especially to the members of the household of the faith”. The latter is the subject of Romans 12:13. “The saints”, these are those whom God sets apart today and are therefore closest to us. So our ‘neighbors’.

The Greek word for “contributing” is derived from a word for “community” (koinoneo). The best motive to contribute to the (life) needs of others is that you form a community with them. In this case: together you belong to “the saints”; that’s what you have in common. And yes, members share.

The word for ‘hospitality’ literally means: affection for guests. That affection is reflected in opening up your home. This “pursuing” means: do not wait for the question to be heard, but offer it in advance and wholeheartedly. An open house where everyone is welcome is a demonstration of grace!

Delen: