Thoughts on hospitality

Hospitality is one of those gifts some people have and they make it seem effortless, smooth, and just so impressive. I wouldn't say that I am one of those people, I forget dessert or there is clutter in our home or something else like that. I started the 40 Days, 40 Bags project to force myself to go through the belongings in our house and really think about what we need, use, and what really would be beneficial for us. The project has not gone as quickly as I would like since I started this project. Part of the reason is am working as a long term sub full-time, another reason is I feel like I have to have rooms perfect before I move onto the next project. This has been discouraging to me, but reading this post on Hospitality from The Nourishing Home has been really helpful. Here is the link: http://thenourishinghome.com/2013/03/discovering-the-heart-of-true-hospitality/ Hospitality is one of those things that The Doc and I can do. We don't have wheelbarrows of extra money or a fancy house; I am okay with that.That doesn't diminish the desire to develop relationships with people and meet their needs. There are a lot of people who need friendship, a place to feel safe, and to feel welcomed and loved. We can do that in our home. It has a lot of quirks just like its human and canine occupants-- it can be a tool in our arsenal of demonstrating Jesus Christ's love. I love parties of all sorts, but it isn't necessary. Easy to prepare food and beverages allow more time for what is important. I'm not saying fun isn't important, but buliding relationships need to be our focus. The article helped give me focus and gave words to what my heart was trying to tell me. I will keep working on my project well past Lent... because the goal doesn't end just because Lent is over. It just brings new focus to my goals. Do you love to entertain? What is your goal and what tricks/ tips do you use to accomplish your goal?