True Hospitality: When is the last time you had someone to your home? Someone who may never be able to invite you anywhere?

I am the first to admit that having people in your home can be stressful.  And, after all, there are so many places to go and see that are fun.  Nevertheless, I feel like Christians (and the rest of the world) just aren't opening their doors to many folks these days.  Hey, maybe they aren't even there in their own house anymore, but that's a topic for another day. I have what I consider to be "good" friends (and not the ones on Facebook), but when I think about it I have  not been in their homes much. (Maybe they don't want to have my entire gang invade their space; I get it.  We are neither small nor quiet.) Still, it is odd to be friends with folks for years and not know much about their home.  I feel like you really get to know and feel connected to people when you are in their space.  My love language is quality time, and I just don't feel that going to the movies, or meeting at a busy restaurant counts.  That's just me !   Every time I am thinking about WHY foster care should be part of every church's culture and a piece of a Christian family's life in some way I come back to this article by Dr. David Anderson.  http://safe-families.org/gods-answer-for-vulnerable-children/.

We have redefined hospitality in our culture. It has absolutely zilcho to do with fancy cooking, flawless landscaping, extravagant place settings, matching decor, ample space, or even cleanliness. Honestly, this is why I love guests under 12 best! They don't even notice that stuff!  If you have a jar of FLARP (look it up), and some frozen pizza served with a smile, then you are an incredible host.





I love to tell my children the story of when Jesus talked about who we are to invite to our table.
John 14: 20-New Living Translation
Then he turned to his host. "When you put on a luncheon or a banquet," he said, "don't invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will invite you back, and that will be your only reward.




This is where he gets me every time:








Then, he discusses the history of the child welfare system.  I think this is important to remember.


























Next, Dr. Anderson adds what he believes (and I agree) stops folks from reaching out/taking risks to be hospitable.

I know everyone can't foster, but what about inviting that BIG foster family over for dinner? What about offering to bring them a meal when they suddenly have a new baby that other folks have 9 months to prepare for?  What about offering to take their foster children to your home for a day or a date night for that fostering couple?   I know about 30 something of these families if you are interested in serving up some hospitality :). 


I'd love to close with his question and may it be food for thought for us all!