Hospitality

What is Hospitality?

Wikipedia says, "cordial reception: kindness in welcoming guests or strangers."

What does the bible say about Hospitality?
Luke 10: 38-42
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

This is my favorite example of hospitality in the bible. I feel that I have been the anxious and troubled sort, like Martha. I love to have people over but I have been making excuses to myself. The house is a mess or we are to busy with our kids. I have also realized that I am very selfish with the time we do have. I like to bed with my husband by 9 and I like my kids to be home. I like things to go smoothly.

But I also need to get out of my little comfort zone..I am here to worship God first. FIRST AND FOREMOST. I think this is definetyl an area where I am lacking.

But yesterday, it was brought to my attention that someone wasnt feeling welcome at our congregation. What???!!!! Where have I been? Why have I missed this? I should have noticed.

The sad part is ..maybe I did and have been too caught up in my own busy life that I havent been making an extra effort in this area.

So here is my new goal:

Every 2 weeks I am going to invite a family that I havent had over to our house, for dinner and games.

Some of you maybe thinking...yes Wendi..get on this. You know what to do!! But some of you might be saying wow...that is hard to do. So let me give you a few secrets...

~Invite one new family and maybe another family that is a veteran family (one that you are comfortable with and one that is VERY talkative)
~Games...bring out the games...especailly the Wii..people can be so competetive...bring on the bowling games!!! Or even boxing!!
~Kids...get your kids to help you get ready! My kiddos can whip the house together in no time.

So onto my invitations....Any other ideas? Meal ideas?