By Chaplain Enrique (Q.) Ochoa
May Thanksgiving this year be more than a holiday, a big meal, fall decorations or a gathering with familiar faces. May it be an opportunity to recognize the importance of daily turning our hearts outward—to notice, welcome and include others.
Gratitude naturally becomes generosity when we recognize that ALL we have is a gift from God! Jesus said,
“When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.”
That is the heart of Kingdom Hospitality—making room for others because Christ has first made room for us.
Hebrews 13:2 reminds us,
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers”
In a community such as ours, Kingdom Hospitality might look like inviting someone who would otherwise eat alone, sitting beside a new resident, checking on a neighbor or simply saying, “Please come join us.”
This Thanksgiving—may our gratitude face outward—and may our community become a place where everyone experiences the warmth, the grace, and the welcome of Jesus.