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Judges 19:9 (BSB)
When the man got up to depart with his concubine and his servant, his father-in-law, the girl’s father, said to him, “Look, the day is drawing to a close. Please spend the night. See, the day is almost over. Spend the night here, that your heart may be merry. Then you can get up early tomorrow for your journey home.”
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“When the man got up to depart with his concubine and his servant, his father-in-law, the girl’s father, said to him, “Look, the day is drawing to a close. Please spend the night. See, the day is almost over. Spend the night here, that your heart may be merry. Then you can get up early tomorrow for your journey home.”” — Judges 19:9
Picture this: a man, his concubine, and their servant are getting ready to hit the road after a long day, but the girl's father steps in with a heartfelt invitation. He’s urging them to stay for the night as the sun begins to set, wanting to ensure they’re safe and well-fed. This moment is about care and hospitality—the father wants to protect them from the dangers of travel in the dark. It’s like a warm hug after a long day, urging them to relax and enjoy the comfort of home before they set out again. You can feel the warmth and love in his words, can't you?
This book, Judges, was traditionally attributed to the prophet Samuel. Samuel wrote this to help the people of Israel remember their history and the importance of following wise leadership. By including this specific detail about the father’s concern, he’s emphasizing the value of community and support during times of struggle. It reflects Samuel’s desire for the people to learn from past mistakes and embrace better ways of living—like valuing relationships over haste.
When this was written, Israel was in a tumultuous time—after the conquest of Canaan but before the establishment of kings. It was a period where everyone was trying to figure out their identity and relationships without strong leadership. Hospitality was crucial back then, as it created bonds and ensured safety. The historical backdrop of vulnerability and the need for community makes this verse resonate even more. It’s like a reminder that, in uncertain times, we must lean on each other.
So, why does this verse matter for you today? It’s all about the importance of taking a moment to pause and connect. Just like the father in the story, you might find that slowing down to spend time with loved ones can lead to safety, joy, and deeper relationships. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to rush through life without taking a breath. This verse encourages you to embrace hospitality and take care of those around you, reminding you that connection is vital for your well-being.
Here’s a practical step for you: this week, invite someone over for dinner or for a chat. Just like the father extended his hospitality, you can create a space for connection. Whether it’s family, a friend, or even a neighbor, take that time to share a meal, listen to each other, and just be together. It’s a simple way to cultivate warmth and care in your life, and who knows what amazing conversations might happen?
Now, let’s step back and see how this moment fits into the bigger picture. Earlier in this chapter, the man and his concubine had traveled a long way and were facing a tough journey back home. The father’s plea to stay the night highlights the theme of hospitality, especially in a time and culture where safety is paramount. This verse serves as a turning point, creating tension between the father’s desire for connection and the man's eagerness to leave. It builds suspense—will they stay and bond, or will they rush into the uncertainties of the night? This moment deepens the storyline, showing how relationships can shape our choices.
What does it mean for you to create a space of hospitality in your life, and how can you do that intentionally this week?
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