Lindsey, from Passionate Homemaking, continues in our discussion of Practicing Hospitality here for chapter 2. Find the discussion for chapter 1 here.
These are just a few of the quotes that stood out to me:
*because of God's great love toward you and me, we should willingly desire to extend love and service toward others by practicing hospitality (pg 50)
*viewing hospitality as a form of giving helps eliminate expectations of receiving anything in return for the sacrifices made (pg 52)
*hospitality is a guage of Christian character for both men and women. It is a measurement of one's love for others (pg 56)
Additionally, there were three definitions given by respondents that seems to encompass the heart of the chapter (pg 63):
*using one's resources (home, food, ideas, money) and abilities (as a hostess, cook, Christian) to minister to others in the context of your home --Cherie Land
*making friends or strangers feel welcome and important when they are in your presence--Heather Lanker
*defined by servanthood, striving to do for others, causing them to feel welcomed, wanted and worthwhile.... the ultimate goal of Christian hospitality is furthering the kingdom: in other words, will my behaviors encourage others to know Christ?... --Debby Lennick
1. How was your definition of hospitality re-defined after reading this chapter?
I never thought about how offering a word of encouragement, a quick prayer with a friend, or some friendly conversation in line at the grocery store is a form of hospitality. My own definition of hospitality has always been too narrow in focusing on what happens inside the four walls of my home.
On the other hand, practicing hospitality in one's own home certainly does reveal one's true character. Faced with company, I have the choice to either embrace the opportunity or allow it to overwhelm me and my family. And yes, it is a choice.
2. How can you begin to switch gears from focusing on "entertaining" to truly demonstrating Biblical love?
I think the most important thing is remind myself that Biblical hospitality focuses on the heart, it's intents, and motives. Is my motive to impress and nothing more? Or is my motive to "give" of myself in a way that reveals God's character and love for the world?
3. How can you begin now to start including a variety of "strangers" into your hospitality practices?
This is a tough one for me and one that I'd like to hear your thoughts on. As I mentioned before it can include those chance meetings at the post office, grocery store, picking up kids, picking up mail, etc. Any other ideas?
Join us next week as we tackle chapter 3: Hospitality and Family
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1 comment:
I like how you pointed out that hospitality in the home can reveal your true character, and I thought this was well put:
"Faced with company, I have the choice to either embrace the opportunity or allow it to overwhelm me and my family."
Embracing the opportunity shows a heart that is more people-driven. Thanks for sharing your insight!
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