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."…