Here at Lifeway Women, we think a lot about ways to pursue hospitality every day (Romans 12:13). Even in small ways, it’s important to encourage those alongside us—family, friends, neighbors, teachers, group leaders, and more.
With summer already in full swing (at least in Nashville), why not throw a summer barbeque to practice your everyday hospitality?
Here are 3 ways to get you started:
- Start with the food.
Despite what some experts claim, food is more than fuel. Have you ever noticed how people become more vulnerable around a table? Sharing a meal is a way to connect with others.
But here’s the good news: You can spoil your loved ones without breaking the bank. Buy burgers and hot dogs in bulk, and throw them on the grill once guests start arriving. Serve cold slices of melon. Throw together salads with pre-packaged lettuce to save some time. Set up a s’mores bar, so guests can assemble their own treats. Also, ask for help. People usually feel more comfortable indulging when they’ve contributed in some way.
- Set the scene.
Don’t worry—summer parties are all about ease. Hang lanterns or string up lights. Throw blankets on the grass when you run out of lawn furniture. Play upbeat music in the background. Hand out sparklers once the sun goes down. The key is to keep it laid-back, so everyone will feel at home.
- Practice biblical hospitality.
Be sure to greet each one of your guests by name to make them feel welcome in your home. Ask after them and their families. Introduce them to others. While it feels safe to mingle with the same people all night, make an effort to interact with everyone. And if you can, invite new people into your circle—new mothers, guests at church, and more. Practicing biblical hospitality means sharing a little of Christ’s love and welcoming spirit with everyone—not just those in your group texts.
If you want to study up on hospitality from a biblical perspective, check out Jen Schmidt’s Just Open the Door.
Here are some fun, free printables to put you in the party-planning mood! Just click the links below to download: