I write the title of this post not as a Maxwell house accomplishment, but as a struggling child of God who wants to fulfill this command, but isn’t sure how to do it while juggling little boys. Any tips? What does this look like apart from just inviting others over for a meal? A friend of mine will often share food with others in the neighborhood. I like that idea, but fail to remember it when a surplus is available. I wish I would have remembered this idea when I was stuck with a yummy cheesecake last week and single-handedly devoured it in 48 hrs.
We all know those families who are experts in this area. We feel welcomed into their home, and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting even if the mantle is a bit dusty (not that I looked) or the bathroom counter has an errant splash of toothpaste remaining. This is much preferable to the picture that I usually display, of a hostess running around finishing preparations like a chicken sans cabeza, and often missing a chunk of the meal to feed a tired baby.
Growing up my parents were ALWAYS inviting people over for meals on Sunday, and throughout the week. My Mom is an amazing hostess, and I love having that legacy and example to follow. If only I could figure out what that level hospitality looks like for me right now, in this stage of life.
The Maxwell House 
June 20, 2012 at 3:49 pm
There is a season for everything. My thought is (with two fewer little boys than you’re rocking now) is that it’s probably okay not to search the opportunity to put on a Sunday spread for another family. Reading your heart on this blog and knowing you from back in the day ;), If God has it for you to be hospitable, the need will present itself and you’ll be there to happily fulfill. And if not? Well, it’s probably okay for someone with fewer babies to nurse to take over this aspect of the kingdom for a few years. 🙂 Also, there are probably heaps of ways to love on people that don’t fit the Christian hospitality mold. I always think of that man that gifted you with a latte. Love that story. What a kind, simple way to love on someone. I should do that more often. How fun. It was a joy for him and a wonderful way for God to love on you.
I have a 20 month old and a 2 month old and I struggle to get through the sound of the crying that goes on in my house from day to day. It sucks out every drop of emotional energy that I have. Mostly, I want to feel loved in the midst of it. I’m thinking that maybe someone in a similar position would love to come over to your house and share a few minutes of Mom talk. The expectations would stay low for the perfect situation because other Moms (hopefully) would understand. I wished that we lived closer. I would totally come over and impose on your wonderful offer of hospitality. Haha. 🙂
June 22, 2012 at 12:40 pm
Thanks for your words, Sally. I’ve been mulling them over the last couple of days, and your bit about letting someone else take over this aspect of the kingdom for a while has been particularly stuck in my noggin. Perhaps I need to relinquish the idea of hospitality being a dinner and conversation. Am I brave enough to just invite folks over for coffee and a scone? My heart gets a bit giddy at the thought. The scone recipes come from a book given to us at our wedding by either you or Anne, by the way.
June 25, 2012 at 5:55 pm
Scones! Yum and yum!
June 22, 2012 at 12:08 pm
This is so funny, because as we left your home last week, I was thinking what an amazing hostess you are! I was on a vacation the entire time we were there. You fixed yummy meals with poise, kept the house straightened, washed loads and loads of clothes each day, made your sons and hubby feel special, AND made Dad and I feel welcome. You even made us feel like we were helping, just by playing with our grandsons! You had to be exhausted when we left, but you didn’t let on at all. You are a great hostess! I know you were too young to remember, but we certainly didn’t have many people over for meals when you four were little.
Love and prayers.
June 26, 2012 at 4:53 pm
Aww, I love the sweet comment from Mom. I have always loved a Mork dinner invite 🙂
And I totally would have helped you out with that Cheesecake last week, for the record.
I’m a fan of the coffee & scone idea. Only having the one, I can be much more flexible, but I often try & have one of the single girls over for an afternoon cup of tea, or an after dinner tea if Jason’s working overnight.
Love reading your thoughts, just thought I’d let ya know I check this page from time to time. Love the pictures of the boys, as well!
July 4, 2012 at 9:17 am
Let your brother stay in a stalker van in front of your place and then feed him for a summer.