The hospitality industry is a multi-billion-dollar sector, with people all around the world seeking time to relax, unwind, and get away from the daily grind of life. Destinations are forced to compete to ensure that their location is successful in wooing the pool of travelers to their shores.
Of all the factors that determine which place leaves a lasting impression on a visitor, I am convinced that how people are treated tops the list. Kindness, warmth, and respect are universal languages. And they speak to our hearts.
However, being kind and hospitable ought not to be limited to an industry. It ought to be our daily mindset and mantra as we engage with people, whether they have paid a high price or not. Of all the valuable things on earth, nothing will ever surpass the value of a person. But value must be assigned and communicated. We can do this by being courteous, polite, respectful, thoughtful, considerate, and compassionate to others.
A few days ago, I, along with some members of my family, had the privilege of being invited to dinner and experiencing warm hospitality from people, some of whom I knew and others whom I had never met. The time of interaction was such a joy, with the opportunity to learn about people with different backgrounds and upbringings. But in doing so, I learned that there is so much more that we have in common with other people. And the time was refreshing, fun, and heartwarming.
Jesus, during His earthly ministry, spent much of his time interacting with people of all walks of life. He engaged with:
1) The poor: Lazarus (John 11)
2) The rich: Jairus, a young ruler (Mark 5:22-43)
3) His religious critics: Herodians, Sadducees, and Pharisees (Matthew 22:15-46)
4) His friends: the disciples (Matthew 5-7)
5) The esteemed: Nicodemus (John 3:1-21)
6) The hated: tax collectors and publicans like Zaccheus (Luke 19:1-10)
It is safe to conclude that He was warm and welcoming, as they felt comfortable approaching and engaging with Him. So, as we go about our lives, let’s make it a priority to be warm and welcoming to people from all walks of life, regardless of skin color, nationality, economic status, religious background, or beliefs. It will make our world a better place!