Because hospitality is a hallmark of Christian virtue...

Because hospitality is a hallmark of Christian virtue, we must practice it liberally – and even more so doing the Lenten or festive holiday seasons. Keep in mind that your home – no matter how large or how small – and all that you possess is a gift from God and must be employed to serve others as Christ has served us. In addition, St. Peter reminds us that we should do so willingly, without bitterness or grumbling: "Practice hospitality ungrudgingly to one another" (1st Peter 4:9). Therefore let love open your door and receive others into your home with the same joy as you would extend to Christ Himself, making them feel welcome, loved, safe, and wanted. For as Christ taught, "Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to Me" (St. Matthew 25:40).

Fr. John