Hospitality is about loving others through opening our hearts and homes. Here are some tips to make guests feel welcome.
Ask people into your home for fellowship and food.
Nothing says welcome more than feeding someone. It does not have to be some big elaborate meal. A simple Copycat Wendy's Chili or hot dogs on the grill and chips will suffice. It's also fun to do something different such as having someone over for Saturday morning breakfast or a late night decaf and dessert. Remember it's about setting the time aside to sit and talk, while sharing each other's lives.
Create an atmosphere where people feel valued and welcomed.
Take time to tidy up. This is not to show how great your house is but it is an expression of, I care enough about you that I took the time to make your visit comfortable. When they arrive stop what you are doing and great your company, don't worry if your meal is not ready. You want to focus on making them feel welcome. If you have other meal preparations to do ask them to join you in the kitchen and talk while you finish up. This makes them feel like family which is what hospitality is all about.
Focus that your home's environment feels comfortable to guests.
This does not mean you must have some big fancy house with decor via House Beautiful. If we really think about it, this might make some people a little uneasy if your home was like a museum. Focus on having a relaxed atmosphere. Comfy places to sit, pillows to lean on, nice smelling candles all add to a home that makes guest feel welcome.
Share your home with the idea of creating a relationship in mind.
Each time we open our home we have the opportunity to create relationships. Focus on the needs in your guest's life. Ask questions, share your own experiences, just live life together around your table. Ask them how you can pray for them and then do it. I like keeping a page in my planner just for this purpose. If they see you writing their needs down they will know that you really will be praying for them.
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