This edition of “What makes you hospitable?” offers a refreshing glimpse into the minds of teenagers as they explore the meaning of true hospitality. Through personal stories, reflections, and heartfelt observations, these young writers reveal how kindness, empathy, and an open heart can transform simple gestures into lasting connections. BETTY AMUKPO presents their views, reminding us that hospitality is not just about welcoming others into our homes, but also into our lives.
‘I’m friendly, welcoming, and generous’
Hospitality is a virtue that is both commanded and commended throughout Scripture. What makes me hospitable is the fact that I’m friendly, welcoming, and generous to guests or even strangers. I try creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for others, making them feel valued and at ease. I extend my hospitality beyond my circle of friends and family to include, strangers and those in need, because Hebrews13:2 reminds us that by showing hospitality to strangers, we may even entertain angels unawares. Also, as recorded in Genesis 18, where Abraham welcomed three strangers and provided them with food and rest, his actions serves as a powerful example of zealous and humble hospitality. In essence, the Bible presents hospitality as a vital aspect of Christian life, a way to reflect God’s love and character, and a powerful means of building community and extending grace to others.
• Marypeace Oche
‘Sharing the word of God with others and being humble’
Sharing the word of God with others and being humble. Jesus taught us to serve others with humility-Matthew 20: 25. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for you don’t know when you have entertained Angels of God unawares. Help others to build better relationship, by showing love, give to the less privilege and comfort the sorrowful. Invite others to your home for friendly banquet and share the word of God together. Always communicate with others in a convenient place and mind your choice of words.
• Anita Chima
‘Love one another no matter the class’
First, hospitality is the demonstration of love for strangers. The gospel of Luke 10 explained about the Good Samaritan and reward of being good. 1 Peter 4:9 states, “Show hospitality to one another without grudging.” We should also treat the stranger who sojourns with us as our own and we should love him as we love ourselves (Leviticus 19:34). We should not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for some have entertained Angels unawares. We should always love one another no matter the class.
• Francis Chibunna Umennadi
‘Receiving others with joy and treating all as family’
As a pilgrim of hope, I show hospitality by receiving others with joy (Romans 12:13), feeding the hungry (Matthew 25:35), and treating all as family (Hebrews 13:2). My welcome is an act of faith, seeing every guest as Christ Himself and offering love without expecting reward. My hospitality is a way of sharing God’s joy and making people feel His presence in my heart and home.
• Ogoke Chimamanda Anthonia
‘Making people feel at ease and valued’
Being hospitable means being welcoming, friendly, and generous towards guests or anyone you encounter. It involves creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment for others, making them feel at ease and valued. 360 training emphasise, hospitality is about fostering genuine human connection and a sense of belonging. Being hospitable, offers numerous benefits, including strengthening relationships, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting personal growth. It creates a welcoming environment and can lead to positive interactions and stronger bonds.
Furthermore, practicing hospitality can enhance social connections, reduce stress, and even contribute to spiritual growth. Bible passage: Hebrews 6:10 states, “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them” Matthew 25:40 highlights the connection between serving others and serving Christ, stating, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
• Ojimmadu Sandra
‘Approach people with an open heart’
Hospitality involves demonstrating kindness, generosity, and warmth towards others, echoing Abraham’s welcoming of strangers (Genesis 18:1-8). I aim to approach people with an open heart, providing care and support freely. Inspired by Romans 12:13 and Hebrews 13:2, I view hospitality as a means to showcase God’s love, ensuring that others feel appreciated and included. In every interaction, my goal is to foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and embraced by God’s grace.
• Arnold Akalezi
‘A heart of love, service and humility’
What makes me hospitable is a heart of love, service, and humility, rooted in God’s Word. Hospitality means welcoming others as Christ welcomed us (Romans 15:7). I strive to care for others without expecting anything in return, following 1 Peter 4 which states, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” I see each guest as a blessing, practicing Hebrews 13:2, which reminds us, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing, some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Hospitality reflects God’s love and creates a space for healing, connection, and community. Like the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), I strive to show mercy, compassion, and generosity to all, especially those in need.
• Sobayo Bukola
