The Way of the Innkeeper: Church as an Inn of Mercy | Shawnee Community Christian Church

The parable of the Good Samaritan is a story we all know, but what about the Innkeeper? Pastor Tabatha shifts our focus to the quiet, essential character who made the victim’s healing possible.

Following the wisdom of St. Augustine, who saw the Inn as an allegory for the church, we understand that the church is meant to be a place of sanctuary and safety—a nesting and resting place for God’s love and justice. This is The Way of the Innkeeper—being willing to take a small risk to meet the needs of our neighbors in practical ways. Our physical space is a resource for mercy, a space where all are actually welcome. The ultimate goal is not just to build sanctuaries, but to be continuously prepared to demonstrate mercy by turning outward and searching the road for those in need of our generosity. We are invited to breathe together, find comfort, and extend that welcome and healing to all we meet.