The Apostle Peter encourages the People of Faith to to show hospitality toward one another (1 Peter 4:9.) We can be hospitable in many ways, but one sure way is to open our home to family, friends, and colleagues. Whether it is hosting a Bible study, Christmas party, having them for dinner, offering overnight stays, or even an occasional extended stay because of distance or need. Hospitality is about graciously welcoming the people we love and care about in our home to catch up or solidify our relationship. The gathering together of the special people in our lives for memorable moments filled with gracious conversation, tender cordiality, and social warmth.
If we have a spacious home to entertain, that’s good. But if we don’t, that’s good too. I’m sure most of us know this already; it’s not about a big house – it’s about a big heart! Hospitality is more about gracious words and demeanor than top-notch accommodations, large rooms to entertain, or a great menu. It’s wonderful if we have the resources and the space to do this. But gracious hospitality is not as much about what we do and what we have, but who we want to be when we are with others. Of course we want our guests to feel physically comfortable, yet emotional comfort is far more important.