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Hospitality

Linda Wegner


It’s little more than a generation ago that Sunday dinner and visitors were synonymous; fried chicken shared with guests was the rule rather than the exception; visiting from house to house or dropping by the neighbours for coffee was routine. For Christians, hospitality was part of their commitment to one another.

While these memories fill us with nostalgia, the reality is that few of us seem to have the time or energy to carry on the tradition. The question then surfaces: Is hospitality a lovely but out-of-date custom, or is it an essential component of a Christian’s life? If it is merely a formality, then letting it go seems the most logical thing to do. If, on the other hand, it remains a biblical mandate, how do we go about making hospitality a part of our lives?

In dictating Scripture, the Holy Spirit included many examples of hospitality. Abraham (Genesis 18:2-5) and Jethro (Exodus 2:20) are just two examples. In his charge to the early church, the apostle Paul reminded those in leadership of their responsibility to display hospitality (1 Timothy 3:12; Titus 1:7-8). The apostle Peter commanded every believer to offer hospitality without grumbling (1 Peter 4:9). The Old Testament command to include strangers and the less fortunate is repeated in Hebrews 13:2-3. Equally clear teaching is found in Romans 12:13, where believers are instructed to especially offer hospitality to other members of the Body of Christ (see also Galatians 6:10).

Establishing the principle is not nearly as difficult as executing the plan, however. The stresses and schedules of our contemporary culture leave us panting for breath by the time the weekend arrives. How do we go about feeding others when we race to meet our own family’s needs?

Trying to juggle the responsibilities of a pastor’s wife and working woman led me to develop a “three S” approach: simple, systematic and scheduled.

Simple

Although my home is kept clean and tidy, the “Housekeeper of the Year” award will never be mine. Casual has always been my style . . . except when company was coming. For many years, preparing for guests turned me into a vortex of frenzied activity. My husband and our sons scattered, and my blood pressure soared – all in my need be known as Mrs. Superwoman. It took me too many years to learn the beauty of simplicity.

Simplicity takes a lot of stress out of entertaining. The majority of people really don’t care if the meal is gourmet or the house immaculate, and relatively few actually report cobwebs to their peers. Most are thrilled just to get together and visit. Although there are occasions when an epicurean meal is called for, why not consider simpler fare? Coffee and dessert, a bowl of soup and a sandwich, or iced tea and cookies out on the deck can be the setting for rich and rewarding conversation. And you can’t beat a good old-fashioned potluck meal.

Systematic

A systematic approach to hospitality helps eliminate the all-too-common problem of church cliques. Rural churches are often blessed and challenged by the fact that family groups dominate the congregation; larger assemblies have another version of the phenomenon. It takes a methodical plan of action to ensure that fellowship is not limited to relatives or to those with whom we are most comfortable.

Ask yourself these questions: Who in my church body has never invited me to their home? Who in this church body has never been invited to my home? While refusing to assign blame, ask God to help you reach beyond your established boundaries.

Here’s a method I’ve found helpful: Invite folks over in alphabetical sequence. Another strategy might involve inviting a small group or several couples from another ethnic, educational or employment background.

Scheduling

Scheduling is probably the greatest obstacle to practising hospitality and is perhaps Peter’s reason for reminding believers to serve without grumbling. The Lord is aware of the responsibilities we carry; with that assurance and His help, decide what works for you. Do you find it impossible to entertain weekly? Aim for one event a month. No time to cook? Meet at a favourite restaurant. Menu and location are not the important thing; caring enough to take time for someone else is.

The fellowship of believers results in encouragement, refreshing, unity and strengthened commitments, and brings joy to the heart of God.

One last thing: If you’re ever out my way, please drop by for tea.

Linda Wegner is a freelance writer and speaker from Saskatoon.

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Last modified July 16, 2000.

© 2000 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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