We have here the record of the two men who walked to Emmaus on the day that Jesus resurrected. They had been engaged on the way by the same Jesus, who they thought to be a stranger, one who was ignorant of current affairs. On reaching their destination, they compelled the “stranger” to come in with them for dinner and stay the night in their place. Their attitude demonstrated that they were hospitable people. Hospitality was a common trait among the Jews in Bible times. Two things can explain this. Firstly, Abraham, their father was described by one Midrash as the paragon of hospitality. In Genesis 18, we read that he was in the front door of his house when he sighted three wayfaring men. He compelled them to turn in to his house for a time of rest and refreshing. He also insisted to see his guests off after their meal.

Someone may wonder if hospitality is feasible today in the light of security challenges. That is why we have the Holy Spirit.

Secondly, the typical hospitality of the Jews is rooted in their history. The nation of Israel has suffered dispersal to different nations. In many respects, they were wayfarers in those nations. So God entrenched it in their law to take care of strangers. ““You shall neither mistreat a stranger nor oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 22:21 NKJV). “Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” (Deuteronomy 10:19 NKJV). Someone may wonder if hospitality is feasible today in the light of security challenges. That is why we have the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God can grant us discernment and know who is safe to bring under our roof.