Matthew 10: 27 Jesus says,” What I say to you in the dark, tell in the light and what you hear whispered, proclaim from the housetops.”

 So how does this scripture relate to being welcoming?

I think Jesus is challenging us to being transparent. Hence, our transparency can resonate with other people who perceive that this is a person who they can trust because they are so open and hospitable with everyone they meet. They treat everyone that same and don’t do special favours for a chosen few.

Moreover, the scripture refers to proclaiming from the housetops rather than what you hear whispered. I believe Jesus is asking us to feel good about who we are and what we are doing and letting other people know about it, particularly when witnesses the good news of God’s Kingdom. Our own personal witness through the work we do demonstrates that we go beyond just a welcome, but we interested in building relationships with others which ultimately develops a culture of compassion and engagement.

Furthermore, welcoming means reserving judgement and always looking for the best in others. It requires us to be cautious and not regret our actions that may sabotage a positive outcome in any situation. Thus, welcoming is the starting point to creating a community that builds a community that lives the Gospel values.