Sometimes hospitality is spontaneous, spur of the moment, come on in and join us for whatever we happen to be eating. Babies fussing, everyday dishes, paper napkins, water to drink, maybe even a pot or pan on the table.
Everyone takes their plate to the kitchen and helps clean up...
Others times hospitality is intentional.
Date set on the calender, invitations sent, menu planned,
Date set on the calender, invitations sent, menu planned,
table set with the silver and good china, house made ready, a special bottle of wine.
Is one better way better than the other?
No, not really.
Spontaneous says this is the way we live everyday. You're welcome at our table to share in the good, the bad and the not so pretty of our family. It says we aren't afraid to let you see the real us.
Intentional says I'm expecting you . I've put my best foot forward for you. I've made an extra effort for your sake.
Is one way harder than the other?
I'd say yes.
Spontaneous hospitality doesn't really worry if the napkins are cloth or paper of if we drink out of red plastic Solo cups.
Intentional hospitality matches and irons everything!
Is one way scarier than the other?
Yes! For me at least...
To spontaneously extend hospitality means we show the 'real' way we live. Not the perfect exterior that takes days or weeks of planning but the nitty-gritty of our everyday lives. It exposes our flaws and the dirty dishes in the sink.
To make an intentional show of hospitality means I can cover up those imperfections. Sometimes that feels good and safe.
But real hospitality isn't always safe. Whether planned or spontaneous it's about the people. About sharing not only a plate at our table but our lives with others.
I'm challenging myself this year to be more spontaneous in showing hospitality. I guess you can say that I'm going to be
Intentionally spontaneous!
How about you? Is it easy for you to invite someone in on the spur of the moment?
I hope to be a blessing to someone today!
Patti
