Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without even knowing it. Hebrews 13:2
Do you know someone who can throw together a party on a moment’s notice? You know the one. This person’s house is always clean and tidy — as if waiting for a visit from Better Homes and Gardens – and in the blink of an eye can pull together a menu or produce trays of delectable finger-foods and desserts.
I am not THAT person! However, over the years, God has still used me and my home to encourage and connect with family, friends, and even a few strangers.
In fact, since nudging me almost seven years ago to initiate such kinds of gatherings, I’ve learned a few things. Maybe some of these lessons will combat the thoughts and fears you may have if you are not THAT person either!
- My house is a mess. Make a cleaning schedule the week before the gathering. Break it up into daily tasks and tackle one task a day leading up to the event.
- Can’t cook? Never fear! It’s easy to throw together a charcuterie board or you can have your guests bring a dish to share.
- What if no one shows up? We are all longing for connection. I have had gatherings as large as 45 and as small as three. But someone ALWAYS shows up.
- I don’t like small talk. I used to worry that I would not be able to entertain everyone. Turns out, all I had to do was make introductions of the guests to one another, and the rest took care of itself.
- I don’t have “space” for a gathering. Good news, you don’t have to host people at your house. Make a reservation instead at a local establishment. And you have the added bonus of not having to think about Lesson #1 (cleaning)!
And if you recall nothing else, remember these wise words from Maya Angelou,
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Opening Your Heart and Home to Hospitality
LED BY ELLEN STEVENS
JULY 12, 2022
10:00 – 10:45AM | ZOOM
