Entertaining Angels

I've been doing some hotel block hunting. Trying to find the best group rate for hotels in the Bradenton area for our wedding guests. With nearly everyone coming from out of state, we want to have a nice place for them to stay in close proximity to the venue. It's hard for me to do this far from there, but doing the research nonetheless. There are some decent rates, and some high ones also. Praying we can find one that works for everyone. I am hoping it will be like a big family/friend reunion for everyone attending. In an ideal situation, we'd all have friends to stay with in the area and save a bundle. Right now, looks like the best deal we've found is $107 + 11.5% tax, decent by Florida standards, but steep for wedding standards. Going to pray about this one as rates get locked down.

Hospitality is of top priority in the Scriptures. Hebrews 13:2 says, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." 1 Peter 4:9 says, "Show hospitality to one another without grumbling." Romans 12:13 says, "Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." It is important to the Lord that strangers and visitors feel welcomed. Of course, this was to people inviting others to their homes, not to a destination, so we're in a little different situation here. But we will have fun being hospitable at the reception.

I know how much hospitality in the form of customer service means to both Ayla and Rob since they are in the hospitality/food service industry. But this also extends to the welcoming of guests to your future homes. As married couples, you will have the opportunity to host people in your homes, and you want them to feel as welcome as possible. When we first married, I wasn't very good at this. For one thing, I panicked thinking our resources wouldn't be enough to accommodate guests. This shows a true lack of faith and trust in our Father. If He wants us to be hospitable, will He not provide to make it possible? What you give you get back tenfold, so a generous spirit in hospitality will most certainly be blessed. So be welcoming and don't worry. Give it to God.

How can you be a good host? Meet, exceed and anticipate their needs. What do they like to eat or drink? Do they like fluffy or flat pillows (or bring their own)? Any allergies? Provide drinking cups, soap/body wash, shampoo, conditioner, extra towels and washcloths in the bathroom. Keep some extra toothbrushes/toothpaste on hand just in case they forgot. I'll never forget the one time Ayla and I stayed with friends who provided us with bathrobes, Perrier, DVDs to watch and magazines to read! Yes, they went above and beyond, and it was pretty cool. Your Busha has always been the most precious host. Even providing bath scrunchies and offering to wash our clothes. She always fills up the candy jars with Rice Krispie treats, Fruit By The Foot and Riesens. When we come we feel welcomed and loved. When people are traveling, they already are out of their comfort zones away from home, so you want to make them feel as welcome and comfortable as possible.

So while we won't be able to show hospitality in the "stay with us" sense for the wedding, we can certainly search for the best place that will treat our guests special. It won't be home away from home, but perhaps a party, a celebration, a vacation. We are looking forward to it!

Discussion: Tell about a place where you felt welcomed when visiting. Tell about a place where you did not feel welcomed. What are some things you like to do for visitors?

Prayer: Lord, you tell us we need to reach out to the sojourner and make them feel at home. We pray we are welcoming to guests. We also pray for your blessing on those times In Jesus name, Amen.