Focus on the Family with Jim Daly Inviting Strangers into God's Family
Nov 24, 2025
Annie McKeown, a dedicated teacher, speaker, and author focused on hospitality and Christian living, shares her insights on welcoming others as an embodiment of God's love. She discusses the concept of phyloxenia and how historical shifts have diminished church hospitality. Annie captivates listeners with stories of cross-cultural connections and the joys of hosting unexpected guests. She emphasizes how practicing hospitality can combat loneliness and foster a genuine community, encouraging everyone to open their hearts and homes to neighbors and strangers alike.
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Hospitality Mirrors God's Heart
- Hospitality reflects God's own character from Genesis to the feast at the end of Revelation.
- Annie McKeown says Christians lost this practice and must recover loving strangers as family.
Loaf Of Bread In A French Park
- While stranded in France, Annie sat next to an old peasant woman in a park who welcomed her and broke bread with her.
- That simple act of kindness made Annie feel safe and modeled cross-cultural hospitality.
The Recovery Room That Became A Refuge
- Annie converted a basement into a 'recovery room' and hosted parents, friends, missionaries, and those needing post-op care.
- The space became a full-service, welcoming environment sustained by family rhythms and a gentle dog.
