Open Hearts & Open Homes Sample

# Day 11 Written by Ps Melissa Maher ## Directed by God ### Read 1 Kings 17:8-16 ### Reflect I'm sure you have been to their house. You know, those people whose home is never messy. Their house looks straight out of a magazine, and the food is seriously gourmet! You think "I could never host people like they do!" Have you ever thought like that? Compared what you have to someone else? When you look at the limit of your resources, it seems barely enough to feed your own family. How could you possibly invite others over? I always wonder what was going through the widow's mind as she was picking up sticks, and Elijah approached her. She said she had so little and was literally going to prepare her last meal with her son! When Elijah asked to come to her house, she could have said, "Oh no go to "their" house, they have plenty, their home is never messy, and they serve gourmet food!" But the widow didn't say this for one very good reason. "I have directed a widow there to supply you with food." (1 Kings 17:9) God had prepared her heart. He had directed her! What about if we allowed God to direct us in the area of hospitality! It would make our resources irrelevant when it comes to serving God and His people. It would mean allowing God to supply what is needed. Having people come to your house doesn't mean you need gourmet food or perfect surroundings. It means friendship, warmth and love. ### Reflect Am I missing an opportunity to serve God and people because of my own insecurities? What ways can I look for God's direction with how to show hospitality? Some Ideas: Keep the meal simple, maybe ask your guest to bring something for the meal. Morning or afternoon tea are cheaper/easier than a whole meal and can be just as much of a blessing.