In every culture, in every point in history, hospitality has been necessary for survival.
When populated areas were few and far between, or when wars and hostilities flickered unpredictably across a country, travelers depended on a generous host who could give them nourishment and protection. It was a heinous crime for a host to harm his guest, or vice versa.
The Jewish people took hospitality a step further. To them, it was not just survival. It was a way to please God. They kept in mind that one of His angels—or maybe God Himself—might arrive in the form of a traveler, as Abraham experienced.
With Our Lord’s coming, however, hospitality has taken on an even deeper meaning. It means feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and sheltering the homeless. In so doing, we give food, water, and shelter to Christ Himself. Catholic hospitality encompasses the first three Corporal Works of Mercy, combining humility and charity through whole-hearted service.
St. Benedict explains this beautifully in his Rule, telling his monks:
“Let all guests that come be received like Christ Himself, for He will say, ‘[I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink,] I was a stranger and ye took Me in.’”
Opening your home to others is a beautiful way to practice the virtue of hospitality. If the idea of people (especially strangers) seeing your home space is an intimidating one, don’t worry! Theology of Home is your guide to making that space a beautiful, welcoming, joyful, and Christ-centered haven that will be a blessing to all who enter. Written by three homemakers, this treasure is filled with beautiful photos and the wisdom of the saints. Get your copy today at The Catholic Company!
