In Romans 12:13c, Paul tells us to practice hospitality. Since he says to “practice”, I would guess it does not come naturally. I know it did not for me. It took years for me to develop that trait, and it was my husband’s hospitality that initiated me.
For most of my life, I did not allow others to get to know me. I had a very few friends who managed to infiltrate my walled up self, but that was more because of them than because of me. I was more comfortable by myself-isolating. I did not invite people to my home because I didn’t know what to do with them, or I was afraid they would judge me as insufficient. However, my home was open to my son’s friends any time they were in need. But then, I was in a maternal position and I knew how to do that.
Today, all of that has changed. I got into a recovery program, turned my life back to Jesus Christ, and little by little, He changed me into the person I was always supposed to be. He truly pulled me out of the miry clay and set my feet upon a Rock. (Psalm 40:2)
In attending recovery meetings, I began to interact with other women and found out that they liked me and didn’t judge me. I married my wonderful husband and that broadened my world. He truly has a heart of compassion and hospitality. We slowly began inviting people that we did not know well over for dinner, a couple at a time. I started a bi-monthly woman’s group on Saturday mornings so that I could learn to be comfortable around women…it lasted about six years and was a tremendous blessing to all of us.
We now host an open Thursday night dinner followed by Bible Study and a Sunday morning brunch following church. We’ve opened our home to others in need. And, guess what? I love it. I will continue to “practice”, I hope, for the rest of my life.
juliesramblings 