The Impact of Hospitality

by David Rollert

For nearly a decade studies have been reported on “the loneliness epidemic.” People have become increasingly isolated and lonely, a trend which contributes to problems such as depression, anxiety, lack of motivation, increased substance use, and more. This only got worse during the 2020 COVID lock downs. To alleviate loneliness, people often turn to social media to gain some sense of connection with others. However, this generally intensifies their symptoms because you cannot have genuine connection with others over a screen. It is like watching a family meal through a window from outside. You see people having connection, but you don’t get any of the warmth from the gathering. Loneliness is a problem. But how can we address it in our lives and in the lives of those around us?

One part of the answer is hospitality. Peter tells us: “Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaint. As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:8-10)

Hospitality is an integral part of showing love for one another. We may TELL our fellow Christians that we love them, but words alone are often hollow. We may TELL our fellow Christians that we are there for them, but how do they know that we actually mean it if we don’t act on it? Someone who suffers from loneliness and depression often feels like people are lying when they SAY those things. We must SHOW our love and care for them. One of the most impactful ways to do this is to invite them into our home and show them hospitality. When we open our home to others it demonstrates to them that they are special enough for us to invite them into our safe place. When a person is depressed or hurting, to feel like they are part of a family brings tremendous comfort.

But what if you’re the one in need? Maybe you are lonely. You wish you could sit with friends around a table full of food and enjoy an evening of fun. One of the great things about hospitality is you do not need to wait for someone else to show you this kindness. You can be the one who takes the first step. You can be the one who invites someone else over for a meal and board-games or a movie. You can alleviate your own loneliness by helping to alleviate the loneliness of others.

It takes practice, but hospitality is a skill worth fostering. At first, you may feel intimidated to try. Find someone you know who is hospitable and ask them to teach you! It will lift their spirits and help you to grow.