Many cultures consider hospitality to be essential; in other places, people only invite those they know and like.  Jesus lived in a 'hospitality culture', but did people really want Him?  There is a big difference between inviting somebody to stay, and wanting them to be a part of your home.  The first comes from duty and the second from desire.
 
The seven-mile journey was almost over.  Jesus had joined two disciples (not part of the twelve apostles) walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus on His resurrection day.  But they did not recognise Him (Luke 24:13-16).  They were grieving His death and also confused about the women’s report that Jesus was alive because they had not understood the Scriptures (Luke 24:17-25).  So, He showed them how their Bible (our Old Testament) accurately predicted the life and death of the Messiah (Isaiah 53:1-12), and described His identity as the Messiah and Saviour of the world (Luke 24:26). Something about that conversation had gripped their hearts (Luke 24:32).  Here was somebody who knew the truth and wanted to relate with them.  It was compelling stuff.
 
When Jesus said goodbye to them near to their house, they invited Him to stay.  Yes, it was partly the expected social duty, and the road was not safe from bandits after dark.  But that was not all.  They really wanted Him to stay.  His words met the desire of their hearts.  His explanations about Jesus from the Scriptures were satisfying to them and came with such authority that they accepted His rebuke (Luke 24:25-27) and were willing to learn from Him.
 
Jesus does not force Himself on anyone, but He longs to be invited out of a heart of real desire.  It starts by being willing to listen to what Jesus says about Himself, accepting it and wanting to obey Him.  When we truly desire Him as Saviour and Lord, a new start is possible.  Jesus said, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them." (John 14:23).  Incredible as it may seem, not only does God come near to us and teach us, but He makes His home in us.  The simplicity of this message is a huge relief to those who struggle and fail to achieve religious goals.  Let us encourage them with the words of Jesus in Revelation 3:19-20, "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me."  If you have welcomed Jesus, live as though He is your honoured guest: if you have not yet personally welcomed Him, click on www.crosscheck.org.uk and find out how to invite Him into your heart.