The author of Hebrews, alluding to the account in Genesis 18 of the three men/angels/the Lord visiting Abraham and Sarah, wrote,
“Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Heb 13:1-2).
Shortly after returning home from the Best Practices Ministry 2026, all the attendees (I assume) received an email from Jeff Schrank, pastor of Christ Lutheran in Phoenix, which hosts the conference. Jeff wrote:
“Would you please be willing to reflect upon how this event impacts you, your team, your church? I will share these thoughts with the congregation and the army of volunteers that wanted to encourage you last week.”
Here, Jeff, my response to your email. This year was my third time attending BPM, and what amazed me that first year continues to blow me away, namely the astonishing love and hospitality of the people of Christ Church, especially those who serve behind the scenes. This year was the first time I was able to thank in person the women who clean and replenish the restrooms during sessions. In all my restroom breaks at BPM I have never encountered an empty paper towel or soap dispenser, trash on the floor, an unflushed, dirty toilet, or (most amazingly) a stall lacking toilet paper. To walk into fully stocked, clean restrooms at all times and in all places (on the church/school campus) is no small thing; it is emblematic of the beautiful hospitality that is a hallmark of BPM. And hospitality, while it may not be among the fruits of the Spirit, is a concrete way of expressing the love of Christ for all.
This year was also the first time I had occasion to speak with one of the hundreds of volunteers (pictured here) who make attending BPM an extraordinary experience of love and hospitality. Since I have forgotten her name, I’ll call her Grace. She was cleaning the tables outside the entrance to the building where the meals were served and took time to share with me that the people of Christ Lutheran consider it an honor and joy to serve in any way, even the lowliest of tasks. Grace used to be on restroom duty and was a bit miffed to have been transferred to the more public task of table wiping! That she and others did this service without seeking honor or praise for their work was clear; they were motivated by the love of Christ for them and their desire to provide a few days of encouragement, community, and respite for professional and lay workers in God’s Kingdom.
The author of Hebrews is not the only New Testament writer who exhorts Christians to practice hospitality and to pair this virtue with love; no less that Peter and Paul did so as well.
The end of all things is near; therefore be serious and discipline yourselves for the sake of your prayers. Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received (1 Peter 4:7-11).
Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers (Romans 12:9-13).
Thanks be to God for the love and hospitality of all at Christ Church Lutheran!
