It Doesn’t Have To Be Perfect

It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect

Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.

Recently Kyle and I started having our neighbors over for a game night, and it makes me wonder why we didn’t throw our door open sooner. We have the absolute best time! Even as I wonder, I know many of the reasons that used to hold me back: my house isn’t clean; I don’t know what to serve them; my kids will act up; our friends may not have fun—on and on the excuses rolled through my mind, allowing me to push off an invitation.

Once I got over the initial excuses, I came to realize that none of those things mattered. Our neighbors just liked being included in our family, and they were honored to be invited in. Never once have they commented on my kids’ behavior (and they can and do act crazy), the cleanliness of my bathroom, or the kind of food I serve (chips and salsa is our go-to snack). They comment only on the fun they have and the warmth they feel while in our home. And the truth is, that’s what I feel too.

Sometimes we put too much pressure on ourselves when it comes to hospitality and inviting others in. As Christians, we should gladly open our homes to others, and the Bible doesn’t share any other requirements—there’s no mention of how fantastic the meal has to be or how lovely our house needs to look. Often it’s our own expectations that get in the way of inviting others in. Opening our homes can be as simple as buying some snacks, pulling out some old games, and including others around our tables. A perfectly clean house is optional!

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Invite someone into your home, either for dinner or a game night, and see what kind of friendship can be forged in the process.