ACTS 16:11-15

We set sail from Troas, making a straight run for Samothrace, and on the next day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, a leading city in that district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We spent some time in that city. On the sabbath we went outside the city gate along the river where we thought there would be a place of prayer. We sat and spoke with the women who had gathered there. One of them, a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth, from the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, listened, and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying. After she and her household had been baptized, she offered us an invitation, "If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home," and she prevailed on us.

JOHN 15:26–16:4A

Jesus said to his disciples: "When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me. And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning. "I have told you this so that you may not fall away. They will expel you from the synagogues; in fact, the hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God. They will do this because they have not known either the Father or me. I have told you this so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you."

Hospitality is a Filipino trait unmatched by other nations. Unfortunately, this was not a common practice in many countries. In Christian communities that have weekly household prayer meetings, hospitality and welcoming people into homes are part of how these communities grow together as Christians. Blessing the houses and all those who live there, enjoying the food lovingly prepared by the hosts, getting to meet the family members who live in that home, all these play a role in the spiritual growth of various communities.

Opening homes to others has also enriched the lives of those who have done so. Communities share their experiences with one another, even becoming foster parents to each other’s children. Sharing the blessings received through the “open house” is a simple but concrete way of expressing God’s love.

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Finally, we pray for one another, for those who have asked our prayers and for those who need our prayers the most.

Have a good day!

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