Do you long for peace in this mad, mad world we live in? When you picture a place that brings relaxation and restoration, what do you envision?
I’ve been thinking a lot about hospitality. Hospitality is sharing, caring, and providing for other’s needs. When I experience a good dose of hospitality, it brings me joy and happiness.
Homes, churches, restaurants, and businesses are sites that hospitality is necessary for thriving. When practiced, they can be places where anyone can come and feel welcome, cared for, and listened to. Where race, gender, religion, political affiliation, or lifestyle are not an issue. Hospitality opens the door to build relationships and trust.
One of my heroes in the hospitality arena is my daughter Calli and her husband Brad. They set their hearts to serve and extend hospitality as a lifestyle. Family and friends to strangers needing help and protection are welcome at their house.
Calli and Brad have been intentional to build relationships in their neighborhood that is undergoing gentrification. They don’t see color or affluence, so with the love of Jesus in their hearts, they open their doors, arms, and hearts wide and welcoming. As they serve with acts of kindness, the frigid walls of racism have been melting away. It’s a beautiful sight to behold.
Being hospitable beckons your time, talent, and treasures. It can tap your energy, specifically those who work long hours, have small children, or are introverts. Extroverts, on the other hand, get their energy from being with other people and many times enjoy being hospitable.
In my last blog Wrestling With Relationship, I chat about how task-oriented people have a harder time being relational. Especially when they have a long list of things to do and don’t have everything checked off. Being hospitable calls for selflessness and being willing to lay down your life for others.
Because I am an introvert and can be task-oriented, hospitality doesn’t come easy. My time on the blanket with Jesus is vital for me. Then, when the tango or challenges come like unexpected visits or needs, I am prepared.
I’ve learned a new skill that helps me when I have guests coming to the house after a busy day. I wait on setting the table, making the salad, and filling glasses. After our guests have been welcomed, I ask them if they wouldn’t mind helping me while I finish the meal. It helps them feel more involved and gives me extra time to get the meal done.
I’ve experienced that as I step out and trust the Holy Spirit, I am blessed. He makes up the time as I honor the importance of hospitality and building relationships. Changing my mindset that hospitality is important has helped me put it first on my to-do list.
I found an interesting article on why hospitality is important. The author teaches how to be more hospitable in easy steps by changing your mindset and skills. Go to How to Become More Hospitable and enjoy.
Have you found ways that help you find the time for hospitality? Are you motivated to reach out to neighbors and strangers to make a difference in your community? This is a great season for it!
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