Holidays can be rough for graduate students who live a thousand miles from home. One family decided that at Easter no one in the body of Christ should be alone. I had never met this family before arriving for lunch—they had just extended the invitation to anyone who didn't have anywhere to go. After being cooped up in a residence hall all semester, entering their house was like being set free. A bookshelf spread across one wall, inviting guests to spot a volume and then use is it as a conversation starter. The deviled eggs and Romanian sweet bread far outdid the campus cafeteria. But it was the afternoon of sharing our hearts for ministry, ideas, family, and community that made the trip worth it. For me, their home that day became a temporary shelter from the things that burdened me.

I have a group of friends who are laying the foundation for their home. These men are seeking to live out their calling to do hands-on ministry in one of Chicago's urban communities. The hub of their ministry will be their home. Most importantly, the house will be a refuge for the neighbors who share the same streets, parks, and sidewalks. The centerpiece of the house is a large living space that will serve as a receiving place for those who come knocking at the door. These Christian brothers intend to provide an atmosphere where the people they meet can be reached, mentored, and encouraged through Christ.

How hospitable are we? We don't need to have a big spread; a cup of instant coffee will do. It is the opening of the gate, the beckoning inward, and the time shared that matter. Your guests may track in some mud or fail to use the right fork at the table. Yet they are in need of the blessing of hospitality that our Lord has given us the privilege to extend. My friend Daniel Sweetser (www.danielsweetser.com) has spoken well for those who are in need of such a welcome:

Stranger won't you come and rest here
Make our home a haven
Stranger won't you come and be adopted
We've been waitin'

Do we have eyes for those who need a safe haven? Are our living rooms intended for living or just to entertain every now and then? When we were strangers, God took us in. We should do likewise.