In an era where people are more disconnected and lonely than ever, the Christian home holds the key to genuine love and discipleship. It’s rare in today’s world to be invited into someone’s home. I recently wrote a post on Loving Hospitality and wanted to expand on this a bit.
Jesus spent much of his ministry sharing meals with others. In fact, some of His last moments with His disciples before He ascended into heaven, he spent sharing a meal. Culturally, eating together was a sign of intimacy, friendship, and acceptance. It’s an opportunity for informal conversation where the heart can go deep.
In the early church after Jesus’ ascension, this was one of the key tools for evangelism and discipleship.
“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
Acts 2:46-47
Years ago I stumbled onto the life-changing work of the L’Abri homes. They were started by the renowned theologian and author Francis Schaeffer. Francis and Edith, his wife, just followed the pattern of Christ. The key to their ministry was intentional conversations with others during simple mealtimes.
In the beautiful country of Switzerland in the 1950s, Schaeffer opened his home to whoever wanted a place to explore their deepest questions about life and faith. No question was off the table. Through Schaeffer’s heartfelt questions and insights, individuals found a place to flush out their troubling thoughts. They were directed to Christ as the complete and fulfilling answer.
The Schaeffer’s home was called L’Abri, which in French means shelter. Through the preparation and sharing of a meal together, and spending time in slow conversations, people found respite for their weary souls. What started as a couple casually opening their home, blossomed into multiple L’Abri’s all over the world.
“I have never met anyone with such a passion for God, combined with a passion for people, combined with a passion for truth. That is an extremely rare combination, and Schaeffer embodied it.”
Os Guiness
Schaeffer’s combined passion for God, people, and truth was the catalyst for many to find and grow their faith in God.
Perhaps this is what true evangelism and discipleship was meant to be. Perhaps this is what the weary of the world is craving. An open door through the vessel of our homes, can be the place where people experience the warmth and invitation of our Savior.
Through our love and openness, others will see the love and openness of their Creator. As we take the step into this type of evangelism and discipleship, I believe we will see hope and healing in a very broken world.
May we continue to live…
Rooted in Him,
