Summer, 2017 is well on its way and so are the picnics, backyard barbeques and … if you are so blessed, pool parties. On my neighborhood walks it’s not unusual to catch the wonderful whiff of hamburgers grilling and the sounds of love and laughter in the air. It’s so inviting … yes, and also comforting to feel the sense of welcoming and safety these represent. There’s something else about these summer gatherings that is now unique in our culture. They seem relaxed and unhurried. Hurry, a norm in most of our lives now, … has been defined by Eugene Peterson as an act of violence against time. Wow! Just sit and ponder that one for awhile! Consequently, when we create safe, open, unhurried spaces where friends (or strangers) can enter and experience the welcoming Spirit of Jesus Christ, ... we are practicing hospitality. When we can sit with another, face to face, in an unhurried fashion, we are offering the gift of presence. When we are willing to offer a cold drink and simply relax and listen to a friend who needs to process, we are acting as Christ to him or her. This summer try welcoming guests with all of your heart, lingering at the door when they leave until they pull out of the driveway, and then spending a few extra minutes praying for them before you move on. Who knows, you may have “…unwittingly entertained angels.” (Hebrews 13:2) ‘Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
Romans 15:7
3 Comments
Margi
6/20/2017 06:18:55 pm
Hospitality - trying to practice opening our home intentionally this summer every Tuesday for muffins and coffee. We are on week 2. Excited to see weekly who the Lord "brings" through our doors.
Reply
6/21/2017 05:53:15 am
What a wonderful idea Margi! I just might stop by!!
Reply
Krissy
6/24/2017 11:01:04 am
Oh I love the definition of hurried! That is me... thanks mom for the challenge!!!
Reply
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Carolyn HerbertI'm a practicing spiritual director, author, speaker, and teacher with a sincere desire to share all that the Lord has taught me. It is my passion to help you create a “sacred space” of deeper intimacy with Jesus.
Resources for Going Deeper![]()
![]()
|