This post is part of my ongoing series on hospitality.
I’m glad you all are excited about this series on hospitality! Today I’d like to share what hospitality really means. I think we can have this picture in our mind that hospitality means hosting an elaborate dinner party around a perfectly set table in a spotless home, serving a gourmet meal, and sending everyone home with boxes of homemade truffles.
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True hospitality is really different from that picture we paint (and, let’s be honest, if that were the definition, few of us would practice hospitality on a regular basis!).
Hospitality IS NOT:
- entertaining
- pretending to be something you are not
- chanelling Martha Stewart
- putting on airs or showing off
- something you can only do when your house is ready to be shot for a magazine
- a chance to try out every idea you have ever pinned on Pinterest
- expecting perfection
- something that has to be stressful
- limited to just having people over for dinner
- just for those who have the “gift” of hospitality
Hospitality IS:
- something that happens in your heart before it can happen in your home
- lovingly opening up your home with the intent of sharing lives with one another
- giving generously to others without expecting something in return
- often centered around sharing a meal with others – usually in your home, but sometimes outside of your home
- being real with one another and accepting each other as we are – messy houses, immperfect children, simple meals, and all!
- building true biblical community
- authenticity
- fellowship with believers
- ministry to nonbelievers
- a form of giving
- love of both friends and strangers
- something to be done with joy!
I like this definition of hospitality (from Practicing Hospitality by Ennis and Tatlock):
Hospitality is a practical way to love others.
What are some ways you can practically show love to others this week?
Love this…sometimes I have a hard time being real and letting people just see how our house looks and runs but I’m glad the Lord overcomes and blesses!
It’s funny… my mom was just telling me (again) what a nice time she had at your house the last time she was there, and that she admired you graciously opening up your home when you have little ones!
Love this 🙂