Becoming A Romans 12 Christian Part 2 Hospitality

Verse 13
Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality

Just a few thoughts to share today.
Hospitality, what does this mean in your home?
Occasionally, I hear the word and I conjure up a Martha Stewart-like vision of decorated tables and china platters filled with succulent food.
However, my mind quickly comes crashing back down to earth when I peek at our grocery budget.

True hospitality is not about the delicacy of the dish, the delightful decor of the home or even how much time you may have. It is the open door and heart of a woman committed to placing the fellowship and encouragement of others high on her list of priorities.

Originally, the idea behind the word hospitable, was this.....there were not many inns in Paul's time and travelers would often head the the center of town and try and find nice-looking families to stay with for the night.
In Romans, Paul is encouraging the Christians in Rome to truly be looking out for the needs of others and invite all types of people right into their home. He wants to them to give for the sake of giving. Asking nothing in return, or have unrealistic expectations.

I am not sure where, in my modern mind I got the idea that having an open door and home meant fabulous decor and first class dining fare.
Truly though, it does not.

In fact, if you think upon this more.... as women it can be pretty easy to start planning a meal and make it about our skills and art in the kitchen.
We start placing ourselves higher up and the original intent of inviting folks over is lost.

So in closing, let us purpose to keep our focus on having an open door, open heart and welcoming those we see in need...
be it in need of a meal, prayer or a conversation.
I will leave you with a few other verses, that I found to be encouraging

Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

1st Peter 4:9
Be hospitable to one another without complaint.