Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9
I spent many Saturday nights staying over at my grandparents’ house. We’d get up in the morning and head out to the patio to have our cereal in the early morning sunshine still dressed in our pajamas. Then, Grandpa would listen to a preacher on the television while we were upstairs getting ready. When it started getting close to when he wanted to get out the door, he’d begin announcing the time…every…few…minutes! Those were the best memories.
That was just the beginning of what would be a wonderful day. After Grandpa got Grandma, my sister, and me corralled out the door and we got filled up with great singing and a refreshing message, it was time to stroll back to their house where the rest of the family would gather.
It was only mid-morning, but the smell of food would greet us as we walked in the door. Grandma had pasta or some other yummy food just waiting for us. She’d have all the salads made and sitting in the fridge with our names on them. Yes, she made a separate salad to suit each person’s taste. Can you imagine? You couldn’t talk her out of it either. It was her way of showing love, and we felt it every time we passed out those special, individual bowls.
I don’t know how many times people would drop in to visit and share a coffee, iced tea, or a meal. Anyone was welcome and many have enjoyed passing time at my grandparents’ house. They showed so much hospitality that you felt like the honored guest. There were many Sundays that I’d even have a friend with me. My friends enjoyed being there as much as I did, and they surely wouldn’t leave hungry! When my hubby started joining us, he was sooo spoiled. He loved it!
There was always laughter, noise, and full stomachs. I don’t remember my grandparents ever telling us to calm down or lower the volume. Well, my aunt would start singing the Amen chorus after grace (the aunt that couldn’t sing), and Grandpa would have to tell her that there was no singing at the table!
It was common to find several people passed out all around the living room and dining room floor for an afternoon nap between all the fun. That’s how comfortable we always felt there. The fun we had playing games and eating even more couldn’t be beat. Those were great times!
The character trait for today is Hospitality-cheerfully sharing food, shelter, and friendship with others (definition from characterfirst.com).
I don’t see as much of those gatherings happening with people anymore. I try to keep some of those traditions alive with my children hoping that they just might want to stop by on those Sunday afternoons after they’ve moved out and started their own families. Sundays are important to us, and I don’t like to see groups schedule meetings and games on those precious days. I even like to still see the afternoon naps take place!
I challenge you to invite someone over soon. Provide some food, a comfy afternoon, and lots of laughter. Don’t grumble about having to clean the house or worry about having everything perfect. I guarantee you that isn’t what’s remembered. The hospitality is what’s remembered.
