Hospitality in the Bible is a significant virtue, deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the biblical narrative. It is the practice of welcoming, receiving, and caring for strangers and guests, reflecting God's love and grace. The Bible presents hospitality as a moral obligation and a demonstration of faith.

In the Old Testament, hospitality is exemplified in the account of Abraham, who welcomed three visitors by the oaks of Mamre. Genesis 18:1-5 recounts, "The LORD appeared to Abraham by the Oaks of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day. And Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground. 'My lord,' said Abraham, 'if I have found favor in your sight, please do not pass your servant by. Let a little water be brought, that you may wash your feet and rest yourselves under the tree. And I will bring a piece of bread, so that you may refresh yourselves. After that, you may go on—since you have come to your servant.'"

The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing hospitality as a Christian duty. In Romans 12:13 , Paul instructs believers to "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." Similarly, in Hebrews 13:2 , the author writes, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."

Hospitality is also a qualification for church leadership. In 1 Timothy 3:2 , Paul states, "An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach." This underscores the importance of hospitality as a reflection of one's character and faith.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates the call to hospitality, where love and care for one's neighbor transcend cultural and ethnic boundaries. Jesus' teaching highlights that true hospitality is an expression of love and compassion, extending beyond mere duty to a heartfelt response to the needs of others.

Reverence

Reverence in the Bible is the profound respect and awe due to God, His name, His Word, and His works. It is an attitude of the heart that acknowledges God's holiness, majesty, and authority. Reverence is foundational to worship and obedience, shaping the believer's relationship with God.

The Old Testament frequently emphasizes reverence for God. In Deuteronomy 10:12 , Moses instructs the Israelites, "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul." This fear of the Lord is not terror but a deep respect and acknowledgment of His sovereignty and righteousness.

The Psalms often express reverence for God. Psalm 89:7 declares, "In the council of the holy ones, God is greatly feared, and awesome above all who surround Him." This reverence is not only for God's power but also for His faithfulness and justice.

In the New Testament, reverence is central to the life of a believer. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire." This passage highlights the appropriate response to God's grace and the seriousness of worship.

Reverence also extends to the name of God. The Lord's Prayer begins with "Hallowed be Your name" (Matthew 6:9), indicating the sanctity and honor due to God's name. The Third Commandment, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain" (Exodus 20:7), further underscores the importance of reverence in speech and conduct.

In summary, reverence is a vital aspect of the believer's life, influencing worship, prayer, and daily conduct. It is a recognition of God's holiness and a commitment to live in a manner that honors Him.