Entertaining

Do you like to entertain? Or, do you put it off because your house isn't perfect or you don't know what to serve? I was talking with a group of ladies the other day and mentioned that someone is at my house EVERYDAY to eat. A lot of times it is different groups of my kids friends of all ages. My friend said that she never has her child's friends over because she always stresses over what to fix to eat. Why??? The kids, or anyone else for that matter, don't come to your house to eat. They come to spend time with your family and be a part of whatever is going on. They really don't care if your house is immaculate and perfect. In contrast, they feel like they can relax better if they know that it is okay to make small messes.

Think about it... when you visit with someone who's house is perfect are you relaxed? Or, do you feel like you need to be really careful to watch your crumbs and straighten after yourself? When they have shoes piled by the door, or laundry to be done, or dishes in the sink you just feel like they are allowing you into their life the way they are. No need for make up and fancy clothes. No need for perfect, made up manners. Relax, and be yourself. One of the biggest compliments you can give me is to walk into my kitchen and open my refrigerator or pantry and grab what you want. I know that you feel comfortable here.

I have had friends with beautiful homes that I covet. Everything looks like a decorator came in and found just the right pieces to go with the house. I have had friends that have houses that need painting, with carpet so full of stains you wouldn't let your baby crawl on it. What matters is how you make people feel when they are there. Do you let people past the "parlor" of your life where everything is clean and always ready for the outside to see? Do you let them into your "kitchen" to sit and tell about their day over a cup of tea? Do you let them lounge in your "den" where they have taken off their shoes and have their feet up? Do you even let them past the "door" and into your home at all?

I love to have people over. I have long gotten over a perfect house. I can't keep it perfect with 5 kids. As soon as we eat one meal and clean the dishes someone is back for a snack. As soon as I get all the laundry done, someone brings two more loads that they "found" in their room. The work never will end. We live here. I don't work and the kids don't go to school, so my home is active 24/7. When you come I want you to be fed. But, not just food. I want you to feel fed love and warmth. I want you to know you don't have to call -just stop by. I will find something to feed you if it is mealtime. I will stop my day to sit and talk to you. You are more important than my laundry or my cleaning.

What do you convey to others? Are they important? Or, are you too busy "doing" like Martha? Mary stopped to spend time with Jesus. Do you stop to spend time with your friends and your kids friends? They may have parents that are too busy to listen to them. They may not get a home cooked meal at home. They may be on the verge of going the wrong way in life. You can make a difference. Entertain. Today is the day, not tomorrow. Tomorrow may be too late.