Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

When I read this part of the verse, “Share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay,” I immediately think of my grandparents. Their home was always full of family and friends. Most weekends of my childhood were spent with them. My heart would fill with joy and anticipation of driving to their home. I loved walking in the front door, and grandpa would greet us with a bear hug, and it seemed like grandma was always cooking something in the kitchen. Their home was the gathering place for our family and many others. 

It’s a spiritual gift that my grandparents have.  They modeled what it looks like to work as a team, as a husband and wife. Friends, neighbors, and strangers were always welcome. There was more than enough food and room around the table for guests.  Watching them serve together was like a perfectly choreographed dance; they each had a role, making it look effortless. They both came alive when people gathered around their table.

Now that I am married, hosting friends and family is something that my husband and I enjoy doing together. We have had some of the most heartfelt conversations with friends and acquaintances as we have shared a meal. I have learned that it’s more important to invest in people than to worry about how clean my home is or how Pinterest perfect my dinner party is. One of my favorite moments in coordinating a dinner party was going around the table and telling each person what we love and appreciate about them. We spent almost an hour affirming each person, and everyone left with their cup running over.

Hospitality should allow us to build deeper relationships with people as we invite them into our homes and around our dinner tables. Maybe cooking a meal for someone feels intimidating. You can always do a coffee or tea date? People will remember how they felt when they were in your presence more than what you served or what fancy napkins you used.

Reflection Question: 

What are some ways that God has used you to be the hands and feet and serve people in your family or community? When have you been invited over to someone’s house? What stands out to you the most---what they served or how you felt after you left? How can you practice hospitality more often in your home?

Praise + Prayer:

Thank you, Father, that You are more concerned about our relationship with You than our works. Help us to leave striving and performance at the door as we invite others into our home. Speak to me, Father, about who I should ask to my house next. Please give me creative ideas to help my family be involved in serving. Amen.

Action Idea:

If you are married or have family, invite them to pray with you, Father, which one of our neighbors should we have over? Have each person share who they hear or the impression they get. Then have your kids create an invitation and invite them over for a meal, coffee, or a lemonade date and get to know them better.