Blessings and Peace – St. Nick’s News April 4, 2025

Full St. Nick’s News for April 4, 2025

Last weekend, while caring for my dad in the hospital, I had a moment that left a lasting impression.

An elderly woman was struggling to open a door, balancing her cane and pushing a wheelchair. I held the door for her just as she asked a hurried staff member for directions. He quickly rattled off, “Go left, right, then down the hall. Good luck,” before rushing off. She looked overwhelmed and on the verge of tears.

I offered to help her find the emergency room and walked with her until she was safely there. As we parted ways, I said, “Blessings and peace”—words that felt more fitting than “good luck,” especially in a place like a hospital.

Because that’s what she needed: not luck, but blessings and peace. She needed someone to see her, to help her, to offer just a moment of care in a space that so often feels cold and clinical. No offense to the many wonderful hospital staff who work tirelessly—but hospitals are rarely warm, welcoming places. They’re filled with urgency and pain.

That moment with the woman reminded me of something essential: hospitality.

In the New Testament, the word “hospitality” literally means love of strangers. It’s not just about being polite or friendly. It’s about truly seeing people—especially those we don’t know—and treating them with dignity, compassion, and care.

In the ancient world, hospitality was seen as sacred. Greeks considered it a sign of civilization. Egyptians believed it had eternal significance. Romans treated it as a moral duty. For the Israelites, it was even deeper—it was woven into their identity. Having once been foreigners and wanderers themselves, they believed hospitality was a direct reflection of their relationship with God.

As Scripture reminds us:

“Do not oppress a foreigner; you yourselves know how it feels to be foreigners, because you were foreigners in Egypt.” – Exodus 23:9

And:

“Do not deprive the foreigner or the fatherless of justice… Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you from there.” – Deuteronomy 24:17–18

For them—and for us—hospitality isn’t just a kind gesture. It’s a holy practice.

As followers of Jesus, we’re called to carry on that legacy. Whether it’s in the sanctuary on Sunday, over coffee and donuts after worship, or in a quiet hallway with someone who’s lost and hurting—we’re invited to extend a welcome that reflects the love of Christ. Not just with words, but with presence. Not just with smiles, but with sincerity.

In a world that often moves too fast to notice the weary traveler, may we slow down. May we see. And may we offer the kind of hospitality that turns strangers into friends and reminds each soul: you are not alone.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday with the warmest of welcomes!

God’s Peace, Love, and Blessings,
Beth+