When Jesus answered all of Nicodemus' questions (John 3), He showed us the power of making room for the earnest seeker.
Nicodemus came in the cover of darkness, afraid of what he'd face if people saw him with Jesus, but driven by curiosity to have his questions answered. Our Saviour could have written him off as cowardly and confused, but instead, He made room for a stranger.
As I've grown older, I have begun to appreciate the power of an invitation. When people feel not just seen, but welcomed, they embrace their roots. When they are recognised, they become willing to grow. In the light of the Son, we find the grace to flourish.
The Greek word used for 'hospitality' in the Bible is philoxenia, meaning love of strangers. It's a radical notion, but it's what we're called to do. To love a stranger extravagantly, to care for the heartbroken, to treasure the friends in our lives, to protect and uplift our families, to obey Christ.
An empty chair.
An extra place at the table.
A random lift to church.
A safe conversation.
An invitation can change a life. "Here's some space to tell your story." Come, sit in the sun, share a coffee.
There is life to be found in an open invitation, when we make room for each other to come, sit with the Son, and find grace.