A Glimpse of Unwavering Hospitality
As I embarked on a journey to Davlekano, Russia, a mix of emotions swirled within me. This was the place where my mother spent her formative years, but her family had fled to Canada during the Russian revolution, leaving behind a trail of memories. I prayed fervently, hoping to reconnect with someone who would remember our family. Little did I know, the Lord had a surprise in store for me.
An Unexpected Encounter
At a meeting in Ufa, Russia, we met Romano, a kind-hearted pastor who offered to drive us to Davlekano and give us a tour of the town. As we approached our destination, he invited us to lunch at his home, and we gratefully accepted. Before arriving, we stopped at a local store to purchase a gift for his wife and stumbled upon a bag of homemade cookies reminiscent of my mother’s baking. The aroma wafting from the bag was a sweet reminder of my childhood.
A Radiant Host
Upon arriving at Romano’s home, we were greeted by his wife, Tanya, whose warm smile illuminated the room. Her countenance radiated Jesus Christ, and it was evident that she and her husband had come to faith just three years prior. Tanya welcomed us with open arms, serving a delectable meal of salads, cucumbers, brown and white bread, potato soup, cookies, and tea. The table may have been wobbly, and the house old, but the love and effort she poured into preparing for our visit was palpable.
A Lesson in Hospitality
That day, I learned a valuable lesson. It’s not the opulence of a home or the elaborate preparations that make a person feel welcome; it’s the spirit of the people living within its walls. Tanya’s warmth and love were a reflection of Christ’s own hospitality, making us feel like we were coming home. We may not have found my mother’s childhood home, but we discovered something far more precious – unconditional love.
A Prayer for Hospitality
Dear Father God, free us from the temptation to compete when hosting guests. Help us to welcome others with the same warmth and love that You have shown us. May our homes be a reflection of Your love, and may we radiate Your presence to all who enter. Amen.
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