Episode #54-If Jesus Came to my House-A look into the book that began to shape my perspective of hospitality- With your host Caroline Rogers
What is God’s Heart for hospitality?
Welcoming people in my home and what shaped my perspective. I grew up in a home that always welcomed anyone, my Grandparents house was the same way. I was taught from a young age that people are what matters in life. My first memory of learning what true hospitality was came from a book my Mom read to me, then I memorized and read myself.
The book is called, “If Jesus came to my house” by Joan Gail Thomas it was published in 1951 so well before I or my Mom were even born. There is something so sweet about how the words that speak God’s heart never go out of style. This book is a simple children’s book and yet as you listen in you will understand why it made such an impact on me. It simply conveys God’s heart for us to love people the same way we would love and honor Jesus.
How can this book still shape us as adults?
Because we are rounding the corner to the holidays it had been on my mind and heart to share this book and my heart on what it means to welcome people into our homes and lives.
One thing that sticks out in my memory is how it convicted my heart at such a young age. I remember being delighted to think about Jesus coming and playing and how I would be so happy to share my toys with Him. I struggled with bad dreams when I was little and had an active imagination so the part where it talks about walking hand in hand with Jesus down the dark scary hall gave me relief.
Then came the hard part. Give my toys and share my time with someone else? I remember thinking how surely I’d give and share with certain people, yet someone always popped in my head that I wouldn’t be quite as willing for.
It all comes down to the heart
As I read this book for the Podcast I had tears streaming down my face. The truth is my heart isn’t always right. When it comes to sharing my time and resources, I can be down right stingy. Maybe you have felt the same way? Jesus says these words:
‘“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’’
Matthew 25:37-40
Clearly the sanctification process is not a quick or comfortable one. The thing is I love Jesus and hosting people. Yet there are still times my heart is not in the right place. As I sat and pondering this sweet little book I’ve read so many times, I reflected on how God has used it over the years. Wether it’s in my hands or not to remind me of His truth. To recalibrate my mind and heart. Maybe it will do the same for you?
A right perspective
The Bible has a lot to say on the subject of hospitality. There are good and bad examples but I love what Simon Peter says in his letter to the early Christian church:
‘But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. ‘
I Peter 4:7-10
I believe humility is a key player in truly keeping a right heart towards hospitality, there is no room for pride. This is where we can enjoy extending our hearts and homes to those who come across our path. Just like we would do for Jesus if He knocked on our door.
Other Real House Wives of the Kingdom Episodes about hospitality
#9- The Art of Intentional Hospitality-Why your intentions Matter
#11- The Art of Intentional Hospitality Cultivating a Sweet Atmosphere
#13-The Art of Intentional Hospitality-Feeding and Entertaining your guests
#15-Christmas Traditions through Generations a conversation with my Mom
