A Heart For Hospitality

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

“Are you guys big Derby fans?” the man asked quizzically.

“Um, actually—no. Not really,” I admitted with a laugh, shrugging. “We don’t know much about it.”

A few months earlier, we had decided to host a Kentucky Derby party and—despite not being horse racing fans or knowing the traditions and customs—threw ourselves into it with gusto. I spent the morning setting up games I had printed off online, decorated the house with red roses, and ensured we’d have what we needed to host forty people.

Less than an hour after I’d told the man that I didn’t know much about the Derby, our house and the outdoor patio were full of friends, music was playing, and the dining room table and kitchen island were groaning under all the delicious food. Our guests had risen to the occasion, with most women wearing hats or fascinators and brightly colored dresses while the men wore suspenders and bow ties.

Looking around at the groups of people chatting and laughing together, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. After the isolating winter months, the return of spring and a group of friends to our home is the reminder I need of how much I appreciate the gift of community.

We endeavor to host friends in our home at least once a week. It’s not because I have an immaculate house or am a social butterfly, but because I believe that life is simply better when we experience it alongside others: the joys and sorrows, challenges and celebrations. The Bible reminds us to open our homes with cheerfulness, and the early church abounded with examples of the community of faith meeting together, eating together, and serving with one another. Jesus is less interested in making sure we adequately clean our baseboards or prepare a gourmet meal; he’s much more interested in ensuring that our hearts are ready to receive others into our home. With Jesus’ help, a heart for hospitality is a gift we can give others—no derby knowledge required.

Kristin

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Write down a list of friends you’re grateful for. Make plans to invite one of them over to your home in the next few weeks.