As I have gotten older, I have come to greatly appreciate
hospitality. When I walk into a place
for the first time, it is nice to have someone acknowledge me or often to
help. Whether I’m in a department store,
a church, or a restaurant, the hospitality I receive makes a difference.
I have heard from several folks that have visited St. Mark Lutheran
Church say that the people at St. Mark are so nice. I love that people feel this way. We as a church need to be a welcoming and
show hospitality to all people. Jesus teaches us to care for the poor, welcome
the stranger, care for those living with disabilities, and feed the hungry. Jesus
taught us radical hospitality.
Synonyms for the adjective form of the word radical are
awesome, beautiful, divine, and wonderful.
These are amazing descriptive words that are often not thought of when
the word radical is heard. Sadly, I am
aware that radical is often thought of as a negative description, but when it
comes to radical hospitality it is far from negative. It is beyond beautiful.
As we prepare to welcome new members, I encourage you to
continue to show radical hospitality to folks who visit St. Mark. I encourage
you to greet people whom you do not know.
Wear a name tag each Sunday so folks can see your name. There are extra name tags and markers in the
narthex on the tall tables for you to use on Sunday mornings. Sit at a table with someone you don’t know
well and get to know them while enjoying a donut and coffee. Continue to be the friendly church on the
hill.
Thank you for sharing your radical hospitality with others. You all are the hands and feet of Jesus
caring for and loving the people of our community and beyond. You are a blessing!
Yours
in Christ,
Pastor Katrina Steingraeber
