strange love
For many years I served as an itinerant Bible teacher and traveled to different cities to teach God’s Word. Usually, I would stay in a local church family’s home during my visit—believers in Jesus whom I met for the very first time. Showering me with simple creature comforts, these hospitable people gave me “a home away from home.” I often…
angels
I was leaving the Guangzhou train station with my ticket when I noticed a distraught Westerner bewildered by the long and jagged lines forming around her. I realized that she must be new to China because she apparently didn’t know that train stations often have ticket offices reserved especially for foreigners. I told her to follow me and I led…
called to kindness
The baby threw up her breakfast—all over the kitchen. She was crying and both of us were covered in pureed pears. Then, a telemarketer called, followed by a prerecorded political message. When the phone rang a third time and it was the handyman announcing his imminent arrival, I yelled: “Will you have to come inside to fix the vent?” As…
cause celebs
A majority of today’s celebrities have a cause. Whether it’s cancer research, animal rights, human rights, global warming, or a myriad of other charitable undertakings, countless high-profile actors and professional athletes have sought to use their platform of popularity to evoke change.
Instead of considering the impetus behind these stars’ good deeds, however, let’s look at our motivation and the…
foreigners
In the Philippines, the door is always open at mealtime. Even if you’re a stranger, a Filipino will insist that you stay and eat your fill. If he does not have enough, your host will give you his portion. Relationships are valued above one’s own comfort and well-being.
When God brought the Israelites out of Egypt, He emphasized hospitality and…
