Five Minute Friday: Visit

Visit

I sat there, confused. They were claiming that it was ‘visitors day’. I was indeed a visitor in their midst, but I certainly didn’t feel like it was my day.

Who visits a church, as a visitor, on visitors day, and doesn’t get greeted?

Me.

I wasn’t looking for any *stand-up-so-everyone-can-see-you’re-a-guest* awkwardness.

No. I would have been fine with a hello from those with whom I shared a pew. Just one.

This made me wonder about myself.

It’s easy to make elaborate plans. To go all out in advertising and talking about an event. I can make a big production into inviting people over. I can plan, tidy up and prepare a tasty menu. But once they’re in my doors, this is where reality hits.

How do I treat my guests?

If I’m going to invite you over, I would love for you to have a positive experience in my home. I don’t want my guests be praying that time would speed along so that the visit can end. I want people to feel relaxed and comfortable when they visit.

The biggest thing is mindset. I’ve changed my thinking when it comes to visitors.

When people come to visit, they’re coming to see me (or my husband or my children). They’re not inspecting for level of immaculate cleanliness nor tasting my food to critique for ratings.

Most of all, I pray that people experience God while on my property. Just because my gatherings are not Bible studies or prayer meetings doesn’t mean that the effect of God in my home will be any less. I don’t know everyone’s heart. But I hope that in visiting my home, all guests will leave feeling loved.

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I’m linking up with Kate and the five-minute Friday community today. I’m inviting you to join in the fun. You can visit her site here.