Day 314 – 3 John – Introduction
“Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you.” 3 John 1:5 NLT
By special invitation or with a surprise knock, company arrives – along with the promise of soiled floors, extra laundry, dirty dishes, altered schedules, personal expense, and inconvenience. From sharing a meal to providing a bed, hospitality costs time, energy, and money. But how we treat others reflects our true values: what is important to us. Do we see people as objects and inconveniences or as unique creations of a loving God? Which is more important to God, a person or a carpet? Perhaps the most effective way to demonstrate God’s values and Christ’s love to others is to invite and welcome guests into our homes.
For Gaius, hospitality was a habit, and his reputation for friendship and generosity, especially to traveling teachers and missionaries, has spread. To affirm and thank Gaius for his Christian lifestyle and to encourage him in his faith, John wrote this personal note. John’s format of this letter centers around three men: Gaius (the example of someone who follows Christ), Diotrephes (the self-proclaimed leader not reflecting God’s values), and Demetrius (another follower of Christ).
Although this is a personal letter, we can look over the shoulder of Gaius and apply the lessons to our lives. Determine to reflect Christ’s values in your relationships, opening your home and touching others with Jesus’ love.
Prayer: Father, thank You that we can read this personal letter and find truth and guidance from the words. Teach us to be more hospitable and not just invite others into our homes, but into Your Home. May our dwellings be a beacon of light in this dark world. Amen.
