Service and Hospitality: Lactantius on Justice and Service

Lactantius (d. c. 325), tutor to Emperor Constantine's son, wrote "The Divine Institutes," arguing that true justice requires active service to others. He taught: "Justice is the greatest virtue. For it does not seek its own advantage but the welfare of others." Lactantius connected justice directly to practical service: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, housing the stranger.

Lactantius argued that even the smallest act of service carries eternal significance: "God is not only pleased with the magnificence of temples and the expense of sacrifices, but with the humble and sincere purpose of those who assist the needy." This democratized service -- the widow's mite of service counts as much as a bishop's grand charitable program.

Practical application: This week, notice opportunities for small acts of service that you normally overlook: holding a door, carrying a bag, cleaning up after someone else, letting someone go ahead in line. Lactantius teaches that the habit of small service prepares the heart for larger sacrifice when it is needed.