Craig Clouston

 Over-the-Road Hospitality

September 27

Even though they are strangers to you … show hospitality.

3 John 8

Jeff was a long-haul trucker by profession, a servant by nature. His wife, Debra,

was both gracious and longsuffering when it came to her husband’s unique

ministry.

It had been two years since Jeff had brought home their last houseguest.

The man had stayed on for two weeks before stealing away in the middle of the

night with some of their possessions.

Jeff was on his way home, pulling an empty trailer, carrying an unantici-

pated passenger. Home typified small-town America, where everyone knew

everyone else—and their business. So it was no secret that Jeff was known as

the purveyor of hospitality within the sleepy little community.

Over the years, Jeff and Deb had taken in strangers, providing food and

shelter for as long as they needed, offering motivation to rise above the circum-

stances that had brought them to Jeff ’s attention.

Notwithstanding their last guest had betrayed their trust, at no time had Jeff

or Debra considered ending their over-the-road ministry. As God continued

bringing people their way, they continued ministering the love of Jesus Christ.

With chagrin, Jeff remembered the lesson he’d learned about showing up

with someone unannounced. So, in light of that bit of hard-earned wisdom, he

called home while his passenger was grabbing them some coffee. “Hey, Deb.

I picked up a fellow that’s down on his luck. You okay with me bringing him

home?” he asked.

Deb didn’t hesitate. “I’ll have the guest room ready with clean sheets,

towels, and washcloths when you get here. Be safe,” she responded, infinitely

touched by her husband’s compassion.

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We are passing through this life in preparation for eternity. Jesus, although

He had nowhere to lay His own head, was big on hospitality, to the extent

He advised His disciples to shake the dust from their feet if they were refused

welcome during their travels.

We are to extend welcome to those in need—whether acquaintances or

strangers. With all the crime and mistrust today, showing hospitality can be

a daunting, if not dangerous, proposition. Yet, we are to seize the opportunity

when God solicits our hospitality, trusting He will provide for every eventuality.

Prayer

“Lord, teach me to be hospitable. Show me how to

extend the hand of kindness in Jesus’ Name. Amen.”