Dear Friend,
There’s something sacred about opening your home and inviting others in, not in a formal, fancy-table-setting, Pinterest-perfect kind of way, but in a real-life, “kids running through the sprinklers while the burgers are sizzling” kind of way.
This summer, we have decided to lean into hospitality, simple, joyful, come-as-you-are gatherings with other hockey families. Backyard barbecues, shared stories, laughter, paper plates, and all.
I used to overthink entertaining. I thought it had to be complicated, that I had to deep clean every corner of the house, prepare a magazine-worthy meal, and set the mood with candles and matching napkins. But the more I grow in my faith (and honestly, the more I live life), the more I realize that hospitality is less about presentation and more about presence.
The Heart of Christian Hospitality
Christian hospitality isn’t about impressing — it’s about blessing.
It’s about creating space for connection. It’s about opening your door — and your heart — to love people well. It’s not just about serving food but also serving up encouragement, laughter, rest, and warmth.
I’ve come to believe that when we open our homes, we also open the door for God to move. Relationships deepen. Kids make memories. Spouses connect. Life feels a little slower, a little sweeter.
For the Woman Just Starting Her Journey with Hospitality…
If you’re feeling that nudge to start inviting others in, but you’re not sure where to begin — here are a few things I’ve been reminding myself of:
1. Keep it simple.
It doesn’t need to be a five-course meal. A big salad and something on the grill is plenty. Chips in a bowl, fruit on a tray, lemonade in a pitcher — it works. Keep the focus on connection, not perfection.
2. Embrace the mess.
Your house doesn’t have to be spotless. Your kids don’t have to be on their best behavior. When we let others see our lived-in lives, it actually builds more trust.
3. Include the whole family.
Some of our favorite gatherings are with other families who also have kids. We let the children play in the yard or toss a ball around while the adults chat. It takes the pressure off and creates a more relaxed vibe for everyone.
4. Let people help.
If someone offers to bring a side dish or dessert — let them. Hospitality doesn’t mean you do it all. In fact, I think the best gatherings are a team effort. It makes everyone feel like they’re part of something.
5. Pray before people come.
Try to take just a few quiet minutes before guests arrive to pray over your home, your conversation, and the people walking through the door. “Lord, let them feel peace here. Let laughter come easily. Let this time be a blessing to their hearts.”
Our Summer of Backyard Barbecues
This summer, we’re saying yes to a season of casual get-togethers, not to fill our calendar but to fill our lives with people we love.
I’m excited to fire up the grill, pull out some lawn games, let the kids play late into the evening, and just be together. No pretense. No pressure. Just fun.
If you’ve been thinking about opening your home more, consider this your nudge. Start small. Invite one family over for dinner or popsicles on the porch. You don’t need fancy plans, you just need a willing heart.
Let your home be a place where people feel safe, seen, and welcomed. That’s holy work, friend. And it starts with one simple invitation.
Enjoy!
Jennifer ❤️❤️
photo credit: Gordon Koff www.unsplash.com
No comments:
Post a Comment