You Are Welcome!

Hospitality. Certain people come to mind when I think of this word. There have been family and friends who have given us this very special gift. My mother-in-law, sisters and sisters-in-law, daughters and daughters-in-law, and so many friends are experts in this area. I have learned so much from them and been so inspired down through the years. What a blessing to be welcomed and refreshed! Do the words gracious, inviting, generous, or cordial come to mind when you think of hospitality? Webster’s puts it this way: “Offering a pleasant or sustaining environment, given to generous and cordial welcome.”

What comes to my mind when I have a wonderful time at someone’s house is the fact that they welcome, love, and accept me. The environment is restful, comfortable, and friendly! I don’t usually care if there are expensive furnishings or perfect housekeeping. It’s always fun to pick up a new recipe or decorating idea and to exchange heart to heart inspiration. The times we talk about spiritual, eternal things or pray together are priceless. There was one time we were visiting in a different town doing a service with our ministry and didn’t know the people we went to stay with. They graciously received us into their home, and it was as if we had known them forever! Being a part of the family of God is like that. God did so many miracles for us on that trip, but that was one of the best.

So, what kind of an atmosphere are you creating in your home? Do people feel the presence of God when they enter your door? If you are spending time with Him, they will. Matthew 18:20,”For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them.” (HCSB) Who knows? You may even entertain some angels and not be aware of it! Hospitality is more than just having a “Better Homes & Gardens” house. It’s about loving people to life and letting them feel welcome. Allowing them freedom to relax and let them be themselves. Providing comfort and counsel when it’s needed. Praying for them, laughing, and weeping with them. Keep things simple and don’t run yourself crazy with cleaning chores! A tasty soup and cornbread with friendship is more enjoyable than a fancy meal with lots of stress and expectations. Let Jesus be in your midst.

Here is a DIY project to help with your hospitality! The other day I was looking for some blue napkins to match my table setting. The only ones I found were very expensive and not the right color. Right beside them were some cotton dish towels that WERE the right color and they were on sale! So, my mind started working…I bought them, cut them in half, and hemmed the side I had cut (you can iron a 1/4 seam and then turn it over again and stitch). The other sides of the towel were already hemmed. Just make sure that you have the cotton dishtowels and not material that will ravel. Tada! I now have 4 new napkins for the price of 2. Very easy!