Home. We all long for a place where we belong, where when we walk through the doors they whisper “you are welcome here”. We often know what makes our own house feel like home, but what about making others feel at home when they visit? Join me as we explore what it means to view hospitality as a christian virtue and learn practical ways to make your home a haven for guests.
Hospitality as a Christian Virtue
Hospitality is a virtue that has been celebrated since ancient times, and it continues to be something we all long for. In Romans 12:13, Paul writes, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” This verse highlights the importance of welcoming others into our homes and our lives, and of sharing what we have with those in need.
As Christians, we are called to show hospitality to others. In fact, the writer of Hebrews tells us, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). When we welcome others into our homes, we are not just serving them, but we are serving God.
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Make Your Home a Haven
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In our individualistic culture it is difficult to learn how to practically make our homes havens for all who enter. Here are some tips on how to make your home a haven for guests:
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Prepare your heart
Before opening the doors to guests, it’s important to prepare your heart. Spend time in prayer, asking God to guide your words and actions. Ask Him to help you see your guests as He sees them and to give you a heart of compassion and kindness. When you approach hospitality with the right mindset, it becomes a joyful experience for both you and your guests.
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Keep it simple
Hospitality doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need to serve a gourmet meal or have a perfectly decorated home to make your guests feel welcome. Sometimes, the simplest gestures can be the most meaningful. A warm smile, a listening ear, and a cup of tea can go a long way in making someone feel at home.
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Be intentional
Hospitality is about more than just providing food and shelter. It’s about creating an environment where people feel loved and valued. Be intentional about creating a welcoming atmosphere in your home. Pay attention to details like lighting, music, and seating arrangements. Take the time to connect with your guests on a personal level and show an interest in their lives.
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Be flexible
When you open your home to guests, it’s important to be flexible. Be willing to adapt to their needs and preferences. If they have dietary restrictions, try to accommodate them. If they have a particular schedule, be willing to work around it. The more you can make your guests feel comfortable and at ease, the more they will enjoy their time in your home.
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Share your faith
As Christians, our faith is an important part of who we are. When we welcome others into our homes, we have the opportunity to share our faith with them. This doesn’t mean that we need to be pushy or overbearing. Rather, we can let our actions speak for themselves. By loving and serving our guests, we can show them the love of Christ and make a lasting impact on their lives.
Hospitality is an important virtue for Christians to practice. By welcoming others into our homes, we have the opportunity to serve God and show His love to others. Whether it’s a simple cup of tea or a lavish dinner party, every act of hospitality can make a difference in someone’s life. So, let’s make our homes a haven for guests and practice the art of hospitality with joy and intentionality.
Read these verses prepare your heart for hospitality:
Romans 12:13 says, “When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. ”
Hebrews 13:2 says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
Resources
Homemaker Felicia Graves was a guest on our blog and shared with us How To Be A Good Host!
If you would like to learn more about hospitality as a christian virtue here are my favourite resources:
- The Gospel Comes With A House Key By Rosaria Butterfield
- The Christian Homemakers Handbook By Pat Ennis and Dorothy Kelley Patterson
- The Lifegiving Home By Sally and Sarah Clarkson
- The Hidden Art of Homemaking By Edith Shaeffer
- For the Family’s Sake: The Value of Home in Everyone’s Life By Susan Shaeffer Macaulay
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