After our large gathering at Thanksgiving we had a couple of days without company. Then we have had more family visiting yesterday and today. We had a surprise birthday party for one of them when they arrived and the house was full of happy faces visiting with those they had not seen in years. As of about a half an hour ago, the house is empty. Who would have thought that a house with ten people would be considered empty? After a week and a half of visitors coming and going it does seem empty now. We had a great time and are so thankful for each one who visited. We are happy to be able to open this home the Lord has provided us to so many.

HOSPITAL'ITY, n. [L. hospitalitas.] The act or practice of receiving and entertaining strangers or guests without reward, or with kind and generous liberality.

I have not yet perfected this gift but I am glad that the Lord has laid it upon my heart. We have been blessed to share our home with so many (even more than this last week or so). One is truly blessed when they share those things the Lord has provided!

It is good to have an empty house and to spend some time focusing on our own family for a time. We will be ready and our doors will be open the next time the Lord allows us to show hospitality.

Labels: Family, journal