The King will say to those on his right, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matt. 25:34-35).

A woman visiting our church told me a worn sofa was the reason she entered the kingdom of God.

An older woman in the church invited this visitor to her home. The house was not fancy, and the furnishings were plain. Still, the two enjoyed a lovely meal during which the guest noticed the worn couch.

The godly woman of meager means explained that she had welcomed so many people into her home, the visits wore out the fabric!  Simple hospitality and a willingness to open a home to people she didn’t know had given the opportunity to share Jesus’ love and grace with many!

This dear woman didn’t invite others out of pride. She didn’t fail to invite them out of embarrassment. She simply shared and showed, from the means that God had supplied, the message of his unconditional grace.

What a great example! A worn sofa represented the gospel in action. It was a glimpse of how we can let the world know that you don’t have to be picture perfect to get into Jesus’ house – or to share it. The grace that let us in is the grace that others need to know, even if it is revealed by our imperfect lives.

Prayer:
Lord, just as you have welcomed the mess of me into your kingdom, so may I share your love by welcoming those who need your grace, love, and forgiveness.