On Hospitality: "How can you enjoy people if you are always trying to impress them? Genuine hospitality is more simple, more relaxed." ~ Richard J. Foster
When we invite people over to our homes, are we genuinely trying to serve them and enjoy their company or are we trying to impress them with our stuff and even how well we can entertain them?
On the rare occasions that I have hosted something at my home, I was so stressed out and worked up over every little detail and literally drove myself crazy trying to make sure everything looked nice and in order. I freaked out if the food wasn't ready in time, if the decorations were crooked, if there wasn't enough food, if people weren't showing up on time, the list goes on and on.
Now I realize I was more concerned about the presentation and trying to impress people rather than investing all that time and energy into enjoying them while they were there. That's why I have dreaded having people over because I know how I can get and it wears me out (and those unfortunate ones who may help me).
But I want people to feel special when they come into my home. I want them to feel loved and not impressed by how well put together things may appear. I want them to experience joy and peace and laughter. That's what's important. Not the fancy dishes or colorful decorations.
Here's a thought: True hospitality comes from the heart. It's peaceful and sincere. No man can create that!
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