A chance encounter with a fellow passenger highlights the importance of genuine hospitality and its potential to transform the world.
On a recent flight from Rome, I found myself unexpectedly immersed in a lesson on hospitality. The simple yet profound gestures of a fellow passenger, Mammar, opened my eyes to the power of genuine hospitality and its ability to transcend cultural and religious boundaries. As I reflect on this experience, I am reminded that true hospitality is not merely a duty but a transformative act that has the potential to shape our society.
An education in hospitality
Mammar’s acts of hospitality far surpassed the professional service provided by the airline staff. While the flight attendants efficiently carried out their duties, Mammar’s gestures were rooted in genuine conviction and pleasure. It became evident that hospitality was not just a duty for him but an integral part of his cultural and religious identity. This stark contrast highlighted the importance of approaching hospitality with sincerity and love.
Building the kingdom
In his book, The Miracle of Hospitality, Luigi Giussani emphasizes the significance of hospitality as an act of forgiveness and acceptance of differences. Mammar embodied this philosophy, extending his kindness and generosity to me, a stranger who did not share his religion, nationality, or language. It is a reminder that hospitality should not be limited to those who are similar to us but should embrace the diversity of humanity.
Spreading Christ’s love
Hospitality is not exclusive to any particular faith. Christians, too, are called to practice hospitality, as exemplified in the biblical verse, “Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you?” (Matthew 25:31). As we navigate the coming weeks and months, it is essential that we embody this virtue, welcoming strangers, extending generosity to those in need, and taking the time to listen to those facing challenges. These simple acts of hospitality can be powerful expressions of Christ’s love and contribute to building a more compassionate society.
Conclusion:
The encounter with Mammar on that flight from Rome left a lasting impression on me. It reminded me that the size of the gesture is not what matters most; rather, it is the love and conviction with which it is carried out. Mammar’s acts of hospitality were small but significant, and they had the power to transform not only my perspective but also the world around us. As we strive to spread love and build a more inclusive society, let us embrace the lessons learned from Mammar, approaching hospitality with unwavering conviction and a genuine desire to make a difference.
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