Reading: Matthew 10:40-42

Verse 40: “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.”

Hospitality and welcome were two highly held practices in the Jewish culture. They were highly held by Jesus too, but in a broader way. Jesus’ circle of hospitality and welcome included people that were not inside the Jewish circles. Jesus pushed for the circle to be wider and more open. Inviting tax collectors, prostitutes, lepers, and other “sinners” into his circle often put Jesus at odds with the religious leaders of his day. This is the reality that he sends the 12 out into.

Jesus sends them out into the world to do what he has been doing: teaching, healing, casting out demons. They are to proclaim that the kingdom of heaven has come near. They are doing so by going out into the world to be Jesus to the world. In verse 40 he tells them, “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.” Those who receive the disciples will be blessed by the disciples and by Jesus and by God.

And the disciples will be blessed too. In verse 42 Jesus refers to “little ones.” This could literally be children and it could be those seen as “less than” or of little value by society and by the religious leaders of the day – tax collectors, prostitutes, lepers, and other “sinners.” To offer hospitality and welcome to even these, to be like Jesus, will bring reward to the disciples. As we seek to live like Jesus, loving and caring for all people, we too will be blessed. May it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, may my circle be wide and open. As Jesus did, lead me to offer welcome and hospitality to all I meet. Remove any barriers or limitations that exist in my heart. May I be one who bears “cold water” to all who need to drink of your love. Amen.