Thanksgiving and Radical Hospitality: An Invitation to Church Leaders

As we approach Thanksgiving season, it's crucial to delve into the deeper meanings of this holiday. We relish gathering with family and friends, basking in the warmth of shared meals and memories. However, it's equally essential to extend our circle—much like Jesus advised in Luke 14.

Thanksgiving and the Lesson in Luke 14

In the said scripture, Jesus addressed guests who prioritized the best seats at a banquet. He taught us to extend our hospitality beyond circles of friends, family, and affluent neighbors. Instead, he encouraged us to reach out to those marginalized or overlooked—the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind. Jesus emphasized that blessings come when we show kindness to those who cannot repay us.

Practicing Radical Hospitality

Thanksgiving season provides unique opportunities for church leaders to practice this radical hospitality. As we gather with our inner circles, we should also remember those excluded from such settings—those who might not have a place at the Thanksgiving table. It extends to the homeless, single parents struggling to get by, elderly living alone, or recently resettled refugees.

As church leaders, here are some ways we could embody radical hospitality:

• Open Your Doors: Inviting those who might be alone for Thanksgiving to join your family celebration.

• Volunteer Your Time: Serving meals at your local homeless shelter or soup kitchen could make a significant difference.

• Organize or Contribute to a Food Drive: Providing resources to struggling families can ensure that they too have a festive feast on Thanksgiving.

• Reach Out: A simple phone call or visit could mean a lot to someone feeling isolated or lonely.

• Welcome Newcomers: This Thanksgiving, make sure every new face at your church feels seen, valued, and included.

Encouraging Gratitude and Generosity

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to express gratitude for the blessings and show our gratitude by extending generosity and hospitality to others. Our invitation today is to emulate this radical hospitality—reflect on who our community's unexpected guests might be and devise ways to welcome them.

Interested in further exploring the idea of Thanksgiving and radical hospitality? Tune in to today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode to learn more.