Hospitality

“be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.”

Titus 1:8b NIV

 “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,”

Acts 2:46 NIV

This weekend, I joined 21 ladies from my church for a progressive lunch. This was a super fun experience as we carpooled to 4 different homes where the hostess would open her door to welcome us, inviting us to sample a variety of food options. We moved from house to house for appetizers, salads, the main course, and desserts.

At each stop, we were encouraged to mingle with different ladies so we could get to know others. It’s a beautiful yearly tradition that encourages us to grow new friendships and reconnect with others we might not have spent time with in a while.

The Lord calls us to be hospitable. That may include hosting a group in our home. It could be making others feel comfortable as we talk with them in a meeting, or inviting them out for a cup of coffee or iced tea. It could also be holding the door open and greeting people as they walk inside our church on Sunday morning.

When we’re on the receiving end of hospitality, it’s important to share our gratitude. We can pray for them before and after our visit. We can invite them into our conversations and offer to help. We can “build one another up” as we say thank you and compliment them for their gifts, beautiful decor, yummy food, as well as their time, energy, and willingness to host.

We can also be grateful for the drivers who allow us to carpool with them and share in fellowship as we travel.

These special occasions are such a blessing for everyone! I’m already looking forward to next year!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You for your loving-kindness and for creating us to be in community with one another. Thank You for the special times when we are able to gather together and for those who are willing to share their gifts of hospitality. Please help us to continue to “…encourage one another and build each other up…” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 HCSB) In Christ’s name, Amen.

Journal: When have you given or received hospitality? Where could you share this gift with others?