Over the past few weeks, I’ve experienced a renewed sense of joy through simple, both planned and unexpected, encounters with Christians from different cultures. These moments have reminded me of the power of hospitality and the richness of God’s global family.
On a flight from Toronto to Budapest, I sat next to a man from Newfoundland. What started as casual conversation turned into hours of sharing stories about our lives and backgrounds. By the time we landed, it felt like saying goodbye to a friend. It was a simple but powerful reminder of how openness can quickly build meaningful connection.
Not long after, I spent an evening in Romania with a Ukrainian refugee pastor and his family. Around their table, we shared food, stories, and prayer. We talked about loss, hope, and the challenges of starting over. It was a beautiful picture of Christian community that goes beyond language and culture. (see below)
Experiences like these have made me more aware of how important hospitality really is. After 30 years of serving in Romania, I’ve seen people generously share what little they have, welcoming others with warmth and care. They’ve shown me that hospitality is simply noticing people and inviting them into your life.
More and more, I’m convinced that some of the most meaningful moments happen around a table. It’s where barriers come down, stories are shared, and true community begins.
In a world that often feels divided, hospitality offers something different. It creates space for connection, understanding, and hope—reflecting the heart of our faith as we welcome others and share life together.