Worship in Hospitality (part 2)

The unexpected visit, we have all had them.

I am not a spontaneous person. I tend to not exude a “laid back-sure-drop-by-anytime” attitude about guests. I schedule and plan any guests that are in my home. Whether it is a meal or a meeting with dessert and coffee, I plan. I plan the menu for dinner. Before they come, I freshen up the house, the kids, and light candles. I like having things prepared. If someone drops by, I am surprised, unprepared, you would probably catch me without make-up, and dishes in the sink! I put myself in Martha’s shoes and wonder if she was scrambling with out make-up and dishes all over her kitchen and no food made ahead of time for the surprise visit from GOD! I can imagine myself sweating, nervous, and very naturally succumbing to my “fear of man” –make a great impression here- self-induced pressure!

Worship is far from my heart when a visit is unplanned. My default is certainly shame. Shame for not having had imagined the possibility of a visit, kept my house perfect at all times, and a smile to boot! That shame is not from God. It is from my own heart, a heart full of fear of man, and Pride.

Having an attitude of worship unto Jesus when the unexpected visitor arrives (I think) might look like this:

• prepared in my heart to put others first
• preparing my heart by praying for an open heart and open home
• having systems and schedules for time management (my favorite)
• waking up early to have time to pray and prepare mind, heart, and body to serve
• having essentials for hospitality always on hand, already made, frozen baked goods, ingredients for a quick snack, breakfast, lunch, or dinner, fun drinks, fresh flowers
• one area of the house ready for conversation (picked up and clean)

Having a worshipful heart when serving others in my home- means I am selfless. I offer my heart, compentancies, and most important my ATTENTION to those who are in my home.

Reminders of Grace: God is not primarily concerned about how I prepare for expected or unexpected visitors. He cares about my heart in it. Am I worshipping Christ or myself as I serve? Thankfully, His grace abounds.

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