September 21
Scripture: Rom 12:16
Source author: Laura Chevalier
September 21
Grace in an East Asian Apartment Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! —Romans 12:16
The mold beneath the plastic-covered window held my gaze. My East Asian friend had warned me before I went to visit her that her home was humble, but I was unprepared for the tiny, dank apartment we had entered. Offering an apologetic explanation, she said it was a former utility room that had been converted into a living space. I knew that it had taken courage to open her home to me, so I prayed for God’s grace to cover our week together. She shared her small mattress with me each night, and each morning we folded it back into a simple, spring-less sofa to make room for a picnic breakfast on the floor. As we said grace, thanking God for food and friendship and a love for each other that spanned continents and cultures, I was aware of His presence with us. My friend’s humble hospitality blessed my heart, and my willingness to enter her life ministered to her. There is no doubt that our love for each other deepened that week.
Opening our lives to others takes courage but can yield bountiful love. — Laura Chevalier —