“Always be hospitable” (15 mins.) Discussion with the audience.
Play the video "Become Jehovah's Friend: Be Hospitable." Then ask:
What does this video teach you about hospitality?
This video teaches us that we should be kind to others. For example, we can welcome all the new people who come to the Kingdom Hall. We can also invite one or more brothers and sisters over for a meal or share something with others, and it doesn't have to be anything expensive.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
It teaches me that being hospitable doesn't mean doing big or complicated things, but rather being kind and making others feel good with small gestures. Sometimes, something as simple as inviting someone over, sharing with them, or paying attention can make others feel loved and welcome.
I also learned that hospitality demonstrates love, because when we are hospitable, we think about what others need or how they might be feeling. It's not just about giving things, but about showing genuine interest in others.
It makes me realize that we can all be hospitable, regardless of age or circumstances. Even with simple things like a smile, an invitation, or a kind gesture, we are already practicing this quality.
How has being hospitable benefited you?
When we are hospitable, we enjoy being happier, since there is more happiness in giving than in receiving. We earn the affection of our brothers and sisters and expand our circle of friends.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Being hospitable has made me happy because I see that other people feel good about what I do. It has also helped me get along better with others and develop stronger friendships within the congregation.
It's also helped me become less shy and get closer to my siblings. Sometimes you hesitate to take the first step, but when you do, you realize that others appreciate it, and that gives you more confidence.
I've noticed that when I'm hospitable, others want to do the same. It creates a nicer, more united environment where everyone feels comfortable and part of a family.
Jehovah is the best example of hospitality (Acts 14:17). Read Deuteronomy 10:17, 18. Then ask:
What do you learn from Jehovah's hospitality?
We learn that Jehovah does not tend to favor the rich and famous. Jehovah is not prejudiced and shows no favoritism. He does not limit himself to accepting a select group, but rather accepts those who fear him. Likewise, we should be impartial and show hospitality to everyone, not just our friends. We should offer and demonstrate our love and hospitality to the disadvantaged.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
I am learning that Jehovah is very loving and generous to everyone. He shows no partiality, but cares for and helps everyone, even those in need. This teaches me that true hospitality springs from love and a desire to help without expecting anything in return.
I also see that Jehovah pays attention to people whom others sometimes overlook, such as those in need or those who are lonely. This teaches me to be more attentive to those who may not receive much attention and to make an effort to include them.
It makes me think that if I want to be like Jehovah, I must be hospitable at heart. Not just doing it out of obligation, but because I genuinely care about the well-being of others and want them to feel valued.
Why is it good to be hospitable to everyone, and not just to our close friends?
It is good to be hospitable to everyone, not just our close friends, because in this way we demonstrate Jehovah's impartiality. In this way, we also reflect our love for others.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because in this way we imitate Jehovah, who is kind to everyone. Furthermore, being hospitable to people we don't know well can help us make new friends and ensure that no one feels excluded.
Sometimes there are siblings or new people who might feel lonely or a little uncomfortable. A simple gesture, like approaching them to talk or inviting them to join, can make a big difference and help them feel part of the group.
It also helps us not to limit ourselves to just our usual group. By being hospitable to others, we learn about different experiences and strengthen unity within the congregation.
Which biblical figures were hospitable, and what do we learn from them?
Abraham and Sarah.(Genesis 18:1-15) Abraham not only offered shelter to three strangers in the heat of the day, but he also rushed to their aid, offering them water for their feet and a generous feast. From this we learn that we should serve others promptly and generously, without waiting to be asked. As the Bible invites us in Hebrews 13:2: “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers.”
Lidia.(Acts 16:15). Lydia invited Paul and his companions to stay at her home, turning it into a meeting place. From this we learn that hospitality is a natural fruit of faith. It teaches us to make our resources and homes available to our brothers and sisters with a willing and determined attitude.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
For example, Abraham was very hospitable when he received visitors without knowing who they were. From him I learn that we should be willing to help and care for others gladly and without overthinking it.
We also learn that hospitality can bring blessings. When we are generous and give wholeheartedly, we not only help others, but we also experience satisfaction and Jehovah's approval.
These examples teach us that you don't need to have a lot to be hospitable. Sometimes, the little you have, if shared with a good attitude, can mean a lot to someone else.
Think about how you could show hospitality, and write down what you would like to do:
We can show hospitality by making others feel valued. For example, by listening attentively; perhaps we could put down our phones and look people in the eye when they speak to us. We can also anticipate others' needs, for example, by offering a drink or a comfortable place to sit before they ask, just as Abraham did.
We shouldn't wait until our house is perfect to invite someone over. We can use simple things: a simple dinner or coffee is enough. What people value is the connection, not the decorations. We can also invite someone who is new to our group or congregation.
We can offer practical help. Sometimes hospitality is shown outside the home: supporting someone in a crisis, bringing food to someone who is sick, or helping someone move are modern ways of “washing the feet” of others.
We can offer rest areas. If we have the opportunity, we can provide a place where someone who is traveling or going through a difficult time can disconnect and relax.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
I would like to be more attentive and invite some brothers, especially those I hardly ever talk to, to spend time with them or help them with whatever they need.
I could also make an effort to greet and talk more with new people in the congregation. Sometimes, a sincere greeting or a short conversation can make someone feel more at ease and welcome.
Another way would be to be more attentive to the needs of others. For example, offering help with simple things or simply listening when someone needs it, which is also a way of showing hospitality.
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