The Gift of Hospitality: Lessons from Lydia

What does the Bible say about hospitality? According to the Encyclopedia of the Bible, it means “love to strangers.” Even though inns existed, people still opened their homes to provide food, shelter, rest, and safety. Hospitality was very important in Biblical Times, as it is today. We see this in Hebrews 13:2 (NKJV), “Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.”

Hospitality was a way of life for early Christians. Throughout the Bible, we read of times when Jesus and His apostles stayed in the homes of others. Opening one's door to a traveler or fellow believer was more than a kind gesture- it was an act of faith and obedience.

In Acts 16:15, “And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us.” Lydia, a seller of purple, from Thyatia was eager to serve and open her home to Paul and his companions. It would seem that she was the first believer to open her home to other Christians — a beautiful example of how hospitality flows from a kind and grateful heart.

True hospitality doesn’t matter how big your home is or how simple or elaborate the meal is — but the love behind the actions. Lydia understood this; she offered her home to Paul and his companions. We must be like Lydia and open our home if we can. We can also show hospitality by helping others in need — a listening ear, a helping hand. In return, we must accept hospitality if the need arises.

Just the other day, my parents invited a visiting preacher and his son over for coffee and a visit. We had such a wonderful time of fellowship. The preacher and his son truly enjoyed themselves even though it was a simple gathering with just coffee and conversation. This is the kind of hospitality we need to practice — opening our homes doesn’t have to be elaborate, just sincere.

Lydia reminds us that hospitality comes from the heart. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just like Lydia, we can serve God by opening our hearts and homes to others — coffee, a listening ear, etc. We must set an example for others to follow, like Lydia. Can we open our hearts and homes to others in need?

Originally published at https://discover.hubpages.com on October 29, 2025.