Friends, family, and people with ability - the persons we may most want to welcome to a meal are the very people Jesus tells us not to invite. Instead we are to welcome the poor, the vulnerable, and the helpless - those who cannot return the favour. Jesus' simple words point to more than just a dinner guest list, there is something deeper at stake here. Christ is calling us to live lives that are generous and inclusive of people at the margins of society.

In his letter to the Philippians, St. Paul does not ask the early Christians to deny their personal needs, but rather, to notice and truly respect the needs of others. With such an attitude, it becomes more difficult to be self-centred, and easier to be Christ-centred. When we live with such a spirit, we are of the same mind, love and heart of Christ.

Is there a person or group in my life especially in need of friendship, community, or belonging? Am I able to invite such a person or people into my life, my house, my heart?