"Get an Invitation"

Acts 8.31b NIV

“So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.”

An Ethiopian official with a fascination for the prophet Isaiah invited Philip to “come up and sit” in his chariot and explain the Scriptures. How did Philip get an invitation from a complete stranger? Philip was an inclusive and invitational Christ-follower. He warmly received those who sought truth. A good evangelist is friendly and easy to talk to. Philip was so welcoming, he inspired an invitation. The Ethiopian was compelled to ask Philip to join his entourage. The Holy Spirit arranged the circumstances and Philip made the invitation happen.

Jesus was like that. Jesus informed Zaccheus He was coming to the tax collector's home for dinner, and received no argument from His eager host...

“Zaccheus, hurry and come down, for today I must stay at your house.

And he hurried and came down and received Him gladly.”

Luke 19.5-6 NASU

Jesus Christ was more than controversial and courageous. He was also kind and approachable. Jesus was welcoming, and so inspired the tax collector's invitation. I suspect most people, given the opportunity, would jump at the chance to invite Jesus home for dinner.

Philip and Jesus make me wonder what kind of person must I become to make others want to welcome me into their quiet home, their circle of friends, their close confidence? How do I inspire an invitation?