Just as some have the gift of evangelism, but all are called to be prepared to give an account of the hope we profess; some people may seem more gifted in the area of hospitality, but it is something that all followers of Jesus are called to do.

Romans 12:13-20 says, When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.

1 Peter 4:8-9 says, Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.

It can seem overwhelming or stressful with a busy schedule or little ones in the house to think about being hospitable.  But choosing to cheerfully be hospitable and making your home a welcoming place is much less about what your house looks like and what is on your table and much more about making yourself available and being focused on those who you invite into your home.

The beautiful thing about hospitality is that it allows you to invite an individual or a group into your home so that you can minister to them and serve them. When you welcome people into your home, and when your home is a welcoming place for people to come to, it is just one way to show them the love of God. By making your home welcoming you are creating a place to foster real conversation, promote a deepening of relationships and provide a sense of peace and comfort to those who come to it. It is something definitely worth the time and effort to do.

If you want to make  hospitality a habit in your life, begin by being intentional about inviting people over.

It’s actually easier to have people in your home the more you do it. This definitely doesn’t mean you need to be throwing weekly dinner parties. But always looking for opportunities to have a friend over for a cup of coffee, opening the door for a neighbor to come in and chat for a while, or inviting a new family over after church are all great ways to remain intentional about being hospitable.

Because schedules fill up quickly, pray about people who you can invite over maybe once a month and then invite them! Think outside your usual circle of friends. Maybe it’s a relative that you normally only connect with during the holidays, or a quiet couple in the church you haven’t had the chance to get to know yet, or the coworker who recently moved here from out of state.

As you prepare for people to come over, pray for those who are going to be in your home. Pray that your guests would feel peaceful and comfortable as they come in.

Pray for the conversation that will take place, that it would be uplifting and meaningful. That the gospel can be shared. That burdens will be lifted.

If you have kids, allow them to be a part of your preparations. That may include helping to plan and prepare a meal, or arranging extra seating, or putting up decorations for a party. Giving them special tasks to take ownership of will help them to be excited about having people over. Create opportunities for your kids to be hospitable to people in their circle of influence by setting up playdates with classmates or opening your home to the group of neighborhood kids to come hang out for a while. You never know the impact that a loving and nurturing person and a joyful and peaceful home can have on a kid.

Once your guests arrive, connect with each person to help them feel welcomed and comfortable. Focus on them and the time you have together. Be attentive and allow the Holy Spirit to direct your conversation. Most importantly, enjoy the opportunity to connect and grow in your relationship with your guests! – Roxy