The Narrow Way

In verse 13, the Apostle Paul presents us with a concise yet profound exhortation: to extend hospitality and share with those in need.

This command invites us to embody the generosity of Christ, not as an occasional act, but as a way of life.

Paul’s letter to the Romans is both doctrinal and practical. In the twelfth chapter, he turns from the great theological expositions to the practical expressions of Christian faith.

He calls believers to live in harmony with one another, to serve the Lord with zeal, and to be a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. It is within this context that we find our verse of focus.

Romans 12:13:

“Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.”

This brief verse calls for an active pursuit of generosity, making the concerns of our fellow believers our own and opening our hearts and homes to them.

Application to Our Daily Lives:

1. Recognizing the Needs Around Us: We begin by opening our eyes to the needs within our community. It’s our shared responsibility to be attentive and responsive to the hardships and struggles faced by our brothers and sisters in Christ.

2. Sharing with Intentionality: We are called to be intentional in our giving, looking for opportunities to support one another, not just with our surplus, but often from our own necessities, emulating the Macedonian churches Paul praised for their sacrificial giving.

3. Practicing Hospitality: Hospitality goes beyond entertaining; it’s a loving welcome that we extend to others, inviting them into our lives and homes. We seek to make hospitality a hallmark of our faith, opening our doors with joy and without grumbling.

4. Building Community Through Generosity: Our sharing and hospitality are not just acts of charity, but foundational to building a strong community of faith. As we share in the needs of the saints, we weave tighter bonds of fellowship and unity.

5. Reflecting God’s Generosity: We serve a God who is exceedingly generous. Therefore, as His children, we desire to reflect His heart. Our generosity is a mirror reflecting the abundant grace we have received.

6. Encouraging Others to Give: We know that generosity inspires generosity. As we model sharing and hospitality, we encourage others to do the same, creating a culture of giving within our church and community.

7. Serving Beyond Our Comfort: Hospitality often requires us to move beyond our comfort zones. We trust God to provide the resources and strength we need to serve effectively, even when it’s challenging.

Romans 12:13 is more than a suggestion—it is a call to active discipleship. As we contribute to the needs of the saints and practice hospitality, we live out the love of Christ in concrete, tangible ways.

Our daily acts of kindness and sharing are the fruits of a faith rooted in the love of God and nurtured by the fellowship of the Spirit.

Let us, then, be known as a people who joyfully and generously open our hands and hearts, embodying the love and hospitality of the One who has graciously given us all things.