Friday, December 4, 2009

Given to Hospitality

typewriter greeting to my in-laws and their friends last night who came here for a preconcert, fireside dinner

If I speak about entertaining, but my house stays dark, I am only trying to sound good for others. If I have the gift of hospitality, but keep it hidden, I miss out on the plans that God created me to carry out when He equipped me with those gifts.

If I cut out wonderful recipes and buy beautiful tableware, but never cook for others or set a beautiful table, it profitith me nothing.


If I say that “faith, family, and friends” are the 3 most important things in life, but I don’t live it, I set a poor example for those closest to me. Actions speak louder than words.

But, if I open my home and my hearth and beckon people come in!...I imitate the welcoming nature of God. If I stand at the stove and mix and stir to nourish stomachs, I imitate the true nourisher of souls who never tires of feeding us.*

So as I clean from last night's feast...

...and begin preparations for family company tomorrow (the kind who live so close you never invite them over!)...

...and recall fondly inviting someone over to simple lunch on the spur of the moment earlier this week...

I remember how good it feels to open my home and shower people with love.

When we use our gifts (whatever they are!),

it makes the Gift-giver grin.

And when the King smiles, there is life; His favor refreshes like a spring rain. (Proverbs 16:15)

*a play on words...1 Corinthians 13

4 comments:

*The Beautiful Life* said...

Cathy, this is going to sound dramatic, but...
your posts speak to my soul.

Thank you, dear friend.

Ruth

Aunt Ruthie said...

Cathy!Oh my goodness! You are an amazing writer! Thank you for leaving your dear comment that you were thinking of me while writing this post. I am honored. It was sooooo beautiful!! Your blog is so refreshing and breathtaking through your pictures as well as your thoughts from the heart. You are a kindred spirit! You are the one who inspires girlfriend!!!!!
I'm putting this blog as one of my favorites you adorable sugar pie sista you!
lots of love,
Ruthann aka Aunt Ruthie!

patty said...

beautiful, cathy!
enjoy entertaining! :)

Paul said...

I have been away from the 'net' for nearly two weeks.
Returning and visiting 'Breathless' was a joy.
This post is a visual and verbal blessing, a veritable sermon.
I couple this with a sermon Sunday in church concerning the word/concept of 'Peace' in the Biblical, Christian meaning of the word.
Again, thank you.
Very moving.

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