Yes, my Grandma Lacquement was a model, but not in the sense of parading down a fashion ramp in New York City with the latest style in clothing. She wore the spiritual clothing of compassion, gentleness, love, kindness, strength and quiet humility as she opened her home to…anyone!

She was the “model of good” as John writes to us this morning. I remember as kid, growing up in the same church as my grandparents, watching her look for anyone who might need a meal and encouragement, especially new people who would come through the doors of our little church. Her twinkling blue eyes were hard to say no to as she asked, “Do you have a place to go for dinner?” We went to grandma and grandpa’s farm nearly every Sunday after church to eat fried chicken and all that went with that. There was always enough for family and anyone else Grandma would invite to her table.

As kids, we always wondered who would be joining us, knowing it would rarely be just family. Grandma’s invited guests left as part of the family. Visiting evangelists, church leaders and missionaries were always welcome to have some of Grandma’s famous biscuits and good night’s rest on their journey. Yes, I think of Grandma Lacquement when I read what John has to say to us in his last letter recorded in God’s Word.

“Dear friend, when you extend hospitality to Christian brothers and sisters, even when they are strangers, you make the faith visible. They’ve made a full report back to the church here, a message about your love. It’s good work you’re doing, helping these travelers on their way, hospitality worthy of God himself! They set out under the banner of the Name, and get no help from unbelievers. So they deserve any support we can give them. In providing meals and a bed, we become their companions in spreading the Truth.”
3 John, Msg

“Friend, don’t go along with evil. Model the good. The person who does good does God’s work.” 3 John, Msg

GRANDMA MADE FAITH VISIBLE! Do I make my faith visible?

Dear Heavenly Father, Sometimes we fear our homes are not good enough to open to others. May we lay down that attitude and pick up what Your Word says. Help us to be willing to open our hearts and homes to other brothers and sisters in Christ who need encouragement and a good meal of fellowship. Thank you for the memories of my grandparents examples to me. Thank you for your love and care of us. Now help us love and care for others like you love us. In Jesus Name, Amen