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A Reflection on Biblical Celebration and Hospitality

As I reflect on the rhythm of life within our church family, I am reminded of how often the Bible brings people together to celebrate, to share meals, and to welcome one another as brothers and sisters, connected in Christ.

This phrase has been on my heart lately:
Connected in Gratitude and United in His Love. Gratitude that leads to joyful celebration, and love that compels us to open our homes, our tables, and our lives to others.

Celebration is an Act of Worship. Throughout Scripture, God's people are invited—and even commanded—to celebrate. Not with mere formality, but with joyful remembrance of God’s faithfulness. The Passover (Exodus 12), The Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:33-43) and Jesus began His public ministry at a wedding celebration in Cana (John 2).

Celebration in the Bible is a response to grace. It gathers people in gratitude and reorients the heart toward God. As a church, we are at our best when we remember together, sing together, laugh together, and eat together. For this reason, Alex and I are hosting afternoon teas during October and the beginning of November.

Hospitality is an Expression of Love. Biblical hospitality is a mark of godliness. It stretches beyond comfort zones and into genuine, sacrificial love. The early church (Acts 2:46) and Jesus Himself constantly sat at tables—with tax collectors, sinners, Pharisees, and friends.

Biblical hospitality is about us sharing God’s love, grace, and presence. In a fragmented world, offering someone a seat at our table can be one of the most Christ-like things we do.

My prayer is that we, as a church, will be remembered for welcoming the stranger, the seeker, the lonely, and one another with warmth and sincerity. Also, for our homes, our meals, and our conversations to be sacred spaces where gratitude flows and Christ’s love is felt.

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling."
— 1 Peter 4:8–9

As we move into this next season may we stay connected in gratitude for what God has done and continues to do. And may we remain united in His love, which binds us together as one body, one family, one church.

With joy and hope.