Welcome Heart, Sue Donaldson, Speaker

The word "hospitality" can put you into a tizzy of stress, fear, inadequacy or guilt -- especially the guilt! ("I know I should've had them over, but...") All those amazing "should's" that God never intended when He said, very simply: "Practice hospitable." He didn't say: "Put on a five-course meal, get out the china and linens, oh, and don't forget the babysitter and housekeeper..." He did say "practice" and with practice comes ease and enjoyment (honest.)

Here are 5 steps to put His wonderful command (not a suggestion) into practice. You might already do all or most of them - go ahead and check them off your list!

Hospitality in Action

Practicing with 5 “P’s” – not including Pride!

1. Practice with...

- one recipe (cake, bread, entrée, coffee, tea)

- one menu

- try one time of day

-  a friend

(imperfection makes your guest at ease, so don’t practice too much!!)

2. Pool ...

-your resources – when someone says, “Can I bring something?” say, “Yes” (even if it’s pretzels for the kids)

- your friends’ talents – (décor, cleaning, creativity)

3. Party Purposefully ...

-provide an activity - ask everyone a simple question, everyone write in a card for a sick friend, share your funniest vacation story

-make the event a “relationship builder”

-include newcomers and old friends

4. Pray ...

-for yourself (peace, courage, time, ability)

-for opportunities to invite someone over

-for your family

-for your guests, that they may see Jesus at your table

5. Prepare ...

-begin stocking your pantry with things to prepare last -minute

-organize your recipes

-be ready, whatever the season!

-when you meet that next person, say, "Can you come over this week? I can do Tuesday noon or Sunday night - which works best for you?" They will be delighted! And, when they say, "What can I bring?" Say, "Chocolate or vanilla - your choice."

PS Let me know how it goes.