Loving People Through Hospitality
If you don’t already practice hospitality, I encourage you to do so. And, keep it simple. The more complicated we make it, the less likely we are to do it
One of the things I enjoy most about living in the marina is inviting our neighbors over for meals. The food is never fancy, but it’s warm and nutritious. The single men, especially, seem appreciative both of the food and of opportunity to sit around a table and enjoy conversation.
Hospitality in our homes almost seems a lost art in our rush-rush and increasingly impersonal society. And yet, it’s one of the best ways to build relationships. It’s not difficult either, if we keep things simple. The point is not to impress but to serve. To open the door of our homes and our hearts and, through our actions, say, “You’re welcome here.”
“When God’s children are in need, be the one to help them out. Get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging for the night,” wrote Paul. (Romans 12:13)
I don’t think his suggestion refers solely to fellow believers. Not when people everywhere long to know they’re valued. Not when people everywhere need a friend sooner or later.
And that’s what we can be—a friend.
A real-life, face-to-face listener and encourager. That’s nearly an anomaly in our day and age.
A winter storm watch is predicted in our area with high winds beginning around 4 PM today. Snowfall is in the forecast for the weekend. Nothing says “you’re welcome” on a shivery day more than the aroma of soup and biscuits, so Gene and I plan to invite several neighbors for lunch tomorrow.
We might do the same for dinner. It seems spontaneity works best in our neighborhood. Today we’re asking God to show us who we should invite—we never want to overlook one of the people living along our dock by inadvertently offering repeat invitations to a certain few.
If you don’t already practice hospitality, I encourage you to do so.
Build a friendship with your neighbors over a bowl of homemade soup. Get to know them over a cup of coffee and dessert. Try popcorn and board games. Again, keep it simple. The more complicated we make it, the less likely we are to do it.
I guarantee you this—opening your door will bless all who enter. And you’ll be blessed in return.
Know you are loved,
Grace
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