Read: 3 John
Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers. 3 John 1:5 KJV
As we travel near and far, home is where the heart is.
When our hearts are centered around being faithful to the Lord and we are with other saints, we are at home.
It is good to know that no matter where we travel or visit, there will be someone there that will make us feel like we belong.
It is so great that we will always desire to be there.
Excited about all the activities we can be a part of.
To feel the love that abounds in the atmosphere.
The same holds true when strangers and other saints come our way.
Christian togetherness and closeness will always make it worthwhile.
Unfortunately, it will not always be this way.
There will be some who take all the enjoyment out of it.
Third, John tells us about the significant differences.
It was seen in the way two members of the church welcomed other believers who visited them.
John the Evangelist wrote a letter regarding it.
To “the beloved” Gaius whom he loved “in truth” he “rejoiced greatly.
He could see that the truth was in him as he walked with God. (3 John 1:1, 3 KJV).
Whatever Gaius did for “his brethren,” he did it faithfully and with love (3 John 1:5,6 KJV).
Diotrephes, on the other hand, was another story.
He was proud and domineering (3 John 1:9 KJV).
He felt that he was above all.
Feeling that no one else could even come close to him.
He even spoke against those who came in the name of Christ (3 John 1:10 KJV).
He was so determined to keep focus on himself.
To protect his position and self-interest he tried to drive out of the church anyone who wanted to accept them.
A mentality not pleasing to God.
Our desire is to have the same mentality as Gaius.
As serious Christians we are to overlook any differences among ourselves.
To be one that is faithful in whatever we do for the brethren and for strangers (3 John 1:5 KJV).
At no time are we to think more of ourselves and treat others badly.
The common goal of doing the work of Christ is our main concern.
He loves us all and wants the best for our lives.
Being a faithful servant in all we do is pleasing to the Father.
Our lives are more complete when we do.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Savior, we know that You have an undying love for us. A love that we should show each other. That our soul’s prosperity is one of the greatest blessings we can receive on this side of Heaven. All You do for us leads to everlasting health and grace. The main reason that Christ-like hospitality is to be done with an open heart. Let it be shown in all that we do.
In Jesus’ Name We Pray, Amen