The Waving of the Welcome Flag
Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9 (ESV)
Every change of seasons brings about new welcome flags. That, in itself, is a very deep thought to ponder so take your time.
History tells us that the only flags that once flew in the breeze were patriotic but the 19th and 20th centuries slowly saw new flags flying. Of course, there have always been the window candles that helped travelers find their way. These candles also signified that sojourners were welcome to stop in unannounced. If there were no candles, the travelers continued on without stopping. Many a life was saved by this kind of hospitality—a seat by the fire, warm milk, and a little rabbit stew went a long way back then. Just to be protected from the raw elements was a blessing.
It's mid-September and most of us have put up our fall yard flags that say “WELCOME”, but do we really mean it? If someone were to knock on our door at 2AM, would we quickly open the door to invite them into our home? Chances are great that we would try to peer out the window and then call the police especially if we live alone. We might even totally ignore the knocking as it eats into our much-needed sleep time.
How did the world become so rough that we must choose who and how to help. Our flag says Welcome. However, the sins of others have forced us to add small print to our banner that says something like this: Do not knock or ring this door bell if you are here to commit a felony. Drunks and drug addicts are not granted access. If you are lost, go to the nearest all-night gas station. I have less than $20 in my purse, and I don’t own a debit card. Should you really need help, come back tomorrow during the daylight hours and I may or may not open the door for you.
So, there you have it! Our flags are just for decoration today. While they are beautiful with autumn colors, they are more for show. Right?
If we don’t open the door, how do we know who is in need? Granted, we are to be wise and cautious but who knows, perhaps we might be missing out on a double blessing—them and us. Or perhaps we’ll miss the opportunity to be visited by an angel.
Loving Lord, thank You for the desire to do something—even it is just a yearning to welcome strangers and help them. Let us not turn our backs on Your children out of fear. Teach us to love as You love. AMEN.
Photo: Michael Johnston 9/13/25