Sunday, May 5, 2013

Friday Follow Ups # 2 - May

Even though it's Sunday, I'm still going to be faithful about my Friday Follow Ups!

I've mentioned before that I've been practicing Biblical hospitality for a couple of years. Yes, it is that hard because I have so much to learn, and I'm doing it on the fly...kind of like on the job training.

It occurred to me that it would be helpful to you if I defined this type of hospitality:

One of the great resources I've found is the book Open Heart, Open Home by Karen Mains, and I'd highly recommend it if you're interested in this topic.



Biblical hospitality isn't the same as entertaining, although food and drink certainly play a role. It's really about being a bridge to Christ. Many of the people who've entered my home, have come to Christ through the process.

Let me assure you that it's not because of us in any way. It's Jesus sending them to us as friends first, and then drawing them to Himself in his own way. I don't understand how it happens, but it's amazing to watch Him work.

So this Friday Follow Up is still focused on "Kim," a former enemy. You can catch up on that story here: Hospitality

I have to tell you that this last time, she made it down into the kitchen.

         God does great work in kitchens!

People begin to feel like family when they get "refrigerator rights" and can freely open your fridge to scrounge around for food.

I could tell being there was nerve wracking for her. Later, I even had to drive her to meet my daughter at work. It was an awkward few minutes but we managed, and she came back and hung out in the kitchen again later that night.

It's crazy to think that Jesus can erase enmity in our hearts if we let him. And it's not easy. I don't know what will happen with Kim, but I trust that He's on the job.

"Do you believe that I am able to do this?"  Matthew 9:28

2 comments:

  1. Erika, Thanks for challenge to be more hospitable. I used to be comfortable at hosting gatherings but haven't kept it up these past few years since moving and it seems as if I've lost the knack - I guess I'd better get back in the saddle again! I enjoy having people in my home, but I easily talk myself out of inviting them when I start stressing about what they'll want to eat. I'm hopeful that one of these days I'll get to go into your kitchen! :)

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  2. TJ, you are welcome in my kitchen anytime! Stay tuned for more hospitality stories. I have a doozy!

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