Day 7

Written by Ps Melissa Maher

Prepared

Read 

Philemon 1:19-22

John 14:1-3

Reflect

Paul asks Philemon to prepare a guest room for him because he plans to come. Jesus says He is preparing a place for when we go to be with Him for eternity. Yet again, God has shown us in Scripture what we should do. Prepare! Preparation for opening your heart and your home is essential to doing it well and in His strength.

I remember years ago when we had plans for someone to come for dinner I would spend literally all day cleaning, cooking, preparing. By the time they arrived, I was exhausted! My heart was in the right place to show hospitality, but my method was off! God showed me a much better way to prepare. He taught me to have a lifestyle of hospitality. To always be ready to receive guests. For example, we have a big table, but I also have a stack of plastic chairs in the shed ready to use if needed. I try and keep my living area tidy every day. When unexpected people are coming over for dinner, it doesn't become an all-day event! I keep the menu simple and only use recipes I am familiar with.

Another way to prepare is to teach your children hospitality. Let them help with preparations. When guests arrive, encourage them to greet your guests respectfully. They don't necessarily have to stay in the room the whole time, but even teenagers can learn not to hide every time someone arrives!

Respond

How can I prepare my home and my family for a lifestyle of hospitality?

How can I make opening my home less work by preparing ahead of time?