Hospitality TIPS

These tips come from Max Lucado’s book, Outlive your life - you were made to make a difference, Chapter 6 - Open your door, open your heart.

“Hospitality opens the door to uncommon community. It’s no accident that hospitality and hospital come from the same Latin word, for they both lead to the same result: healing. When you open your door to someone, you are sending this message: “You matter to me and to God.” You may think you are saying, “Come over for a visit.” But what your guest hears is, “I’m worth the effort.” 

Max Lucado

ISSUE A GENUINE INVITATION

Let your guests know you want them to come. Call them on the phone, or step over to their desks at work. Are they neighbours? Knock on their doors and say, “We’d love for you to join us at our dinner table tonight. Please come.” People weather so many daily rejections. The doctor can’t see them. The kids didn’t call. The airplane is booked. But then you invite them over. We have room for you! Life altering.

MAKE A BIG DEAL OF THEIR ARRIVAL

Gather the entire family at the front door. Swing it open as you see them approach. If you have a driveway, meet them on it. If your apartment has a lobby, be waiting for them. This is a parade-worthy moment. One of God’s children is coming to your house!

ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF YOUR GUESTS

First-century hospitality included foot-washing. Modern-day hospitality includes the sharing of food and drink. Time to talk and listen. No television blaring in the back-ground. No invasive music. Make sure everyone has the opportunity to speak. Go around the table and share favourite moments of the day or memories of the week. Like the Good Shepherd, we prepare a table and restore the soul.

SEND THEM OUT WITH A BLESSING

Make it clear you are glad your guests came. Offer a prayer for their safety and a word of encouragement for their travel.

Disclaimer: This material was taken from Max Lucado’s book, Outlive your life- You were made to make a difference.