Bible Study Magazine—September–October 2020 Issue

Biblical Hospitality in a Post-Christian World

When Rosaria Butterfi eld responded affirmatively to a dinner invitation from a local pastor in Syracuse, New York, she considered it a prime research opportunity. It was the late ‘90s and Butterfi eld was a professor of English literature and women’s studies at Syracuse University, specializing in queer theory. A leader in LGBTQ rights in an out lesbian relationship, Butterfield was writing a book on the Religious Right and “why they hated people like me.” What she encountered instead of hate was the disarming hospitality of Ken and Floy Smith.

Anywhere But Here

In these disorienting days, I've taken up the daily practice of running to the local place of death, and he's not alone. The Piedmont Cemetery has come alive in recent weeks: people of all ages, walking and running, in search of some room to breathe; spring fl owers, awash in blossoms of pink and red and purple, are waking up. The upside-down truth at the heart of Christianity, that God brings life from death, is suddenly visible here, latent in creation.

—Ryan J. Pemberton

Mysterious Ways

At the beginning of Joseph’s story, his life seems ideal. He is his father’s favored son. His dreams seem to point to his future greatness. However, Joseph’s life quickly turns tragic. He suffers betrayal by his brothers, false accusations, and years of imprisonment before being raised to a position of power in Egypt. Through it all, Joseph remains faithful to God, and God never abandons him.