Hospitality: A Gift or A Mindset?

July 25, 2012 by Missy Rakes 18 Comments

We can probably all think of someone who appears to have the “gift” of hospitality. You know the social butterfly type who loves being around people and seems to host parties without any effort at all??

But, is hospitality really some supernatural “gift” that is given to some and out of reach for others? The more I think about it, the more God is showing me that hospitality is a way of life. To show hospitality is to open our homes, arms and tables to others. Does this come more naturally to some? Yes, I believe it does, but I also believe those who are continually opening their homes to fellowship are being intentional about it.

Life is busy and if you wait until things are “perfect” to invite people over then it probably won’t happen very quickly, if at all. If we’re going to open our homes and show love to our neighbors we have to plan it and be intentional about it. And just like anything else in life, it gets easier with practice.

God has been dealing with me in this area and I’ve started working out details and setting dates for people to come and fellowship in our home on a more regular basis. Having people over every once in awhile when I feel like it is okay, but I want to make it a way of life. A trademark of our family. I want my kids to see us reaching out and serving those around us on a regular basis.

You see hospitality is all about serving others. It’s not about showing off your house or your cooking skills, its about considering the wants and needs of others and focusing on them. I want more of this in our family’s life. I could make the case that we live in a small house and have a baby so having others over just isn’t practical for us right now, but think of the blessings we would be missing out on. Think of the fellowship we would be forfeiting.

Here’s a portion of what the bible says about it:

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers,

for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”

-Hebrew 13:2

“Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.”
-Romans 12:13

Obviously, God wants us to be hospitable towards one another by serving them and we can do this by being welcoming and opening our homes to others.

Who could you call right now, that you’ve been meaning to have over?
Do you have a neighbor that you’ve been wanting to get to know?
Has someone just had a baby or a major surgery that you could deliver a meal too?
Do you know a widow or single person who might enjoy the fellowship of your family?

I hope this has inspired you to consider reaching out and serving others!
I know I’m working on it. 😉

Do you view hospitality as a gift or a way of life?
Do you believe it gets easier with practice?
I’d love to know your thoughts!

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