I thought since I am currently delivering my first sermon ever, I would schedule the written form to go out over my blog simultaneously.  Ah, the wonders of technology.  Anyways, it is based in the text Romans 12:9-21, which might help to read first here.  Also, I apologize for editing mistakes, grammar, and the like.  I wrote it like I would speak it, so if it doesn’t sound right, just imagine Martin Luther King Jr. orating it, and it should sound better…

Good morning!  Paul says, “Contribute to the needs of the saints; Extend hospitality to strangers.”  As a stranger to ________, you have extended much more than your fair share of hospitality to me.  From the time Harold jumped up to greet me on my first Sunday here, through Vacation Bible School where the ladies welcomed me with so much excitement each day – I even arrived late to the Swiss Steak Dinner, and you still let me eat!  The church’s and Pastor ___’s willingness to include me in the work of the church for this month was an offering of acceptance that I think embodies the essence of hospitality.  From my experience, I would say that you all have set a pretty good example of the way Paul instructs us to be hospitable.

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