Is Hospitality Really a Requirement for Spiritual Leaders?

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-- Doug Nichols

Yes, it is, but the lack of it is helpful in learning humility and in not takingyourself too seriously, realizing that we are simply sinners deserving nothingbut saved by grace and grace alone.

On one occasion in visiting another country in which we were beginning gospelministry among the poor, street children and needy pastors, I had anappointment in the parsonage with a well-known pastor, church leader andconference speaker who traveled from his country often to speak in conferencesin the US, Canada, and the UK.
I was made to wait quite awhile and was finally ushered into the living roominstead of his office as it was his break time (tea time). He was served histoast, jam, cheese, boiled eggs, and tea while I watched and waited. This wasin a country known for its gracious hospitality.
It was very apparent that I was not to speak until he finished and he took histime! There was no hospitality, no offer of refreshments or tea, I was simplyto watch and wait as I was put in my place as non-important; I would beattended to if and when he was ready.
I hate to admit it, but I was very embarrassed not only for me, but also forhim, this great leader whose writings I had read and appreciated but now he didnot seem so great "spiritually" anymore.
I was a speaker at a major conference with a mission leader and author. As ourdriver spoke to him often, there was no response, no thankfulness orfriendliness at all. The conference volunteer driver told me he was made tofeel very insignificant, and he tried to not let it bother him. He said to me,"He is a big shot here at the conference, but he doesn't even seem to havethe common courtesy of a Christian!"
Hospitality is making others feel comfortable especially in your presence. Towait on them, to serve them, to care for them, and to simply be kind andfriendly with them. Is it important for leaders? The Word of God says in1Timothy 3:2, "The overseer (pastor, church leader, missionary andministry leader)...MUST be...hospitable..."

"But the salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their strengthin time of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them...and saves them,because they take refuge in Him." (Psalm 37:39-40)