Opportunities to Love on Others Through Hospitality

The Holidays can be a stressful time for many. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of family get-togethers, church functions, work parties, shopping, wrapping, and everything else this time of year distracts us with. We can quickly

lose sight of what’s important – letting God’s light shine through us. We can start within our own families, but we can also love on others around us that aren’t a part of our families too. The Bible even gives us a command to love one another:

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” –John 13: 34-35

Here are some ideas of how to show the love of Jesus while loving on others this Holiday season.

Invite Friends & Family to Church Activities

You probably have family and friends who do not attend church regularly or even at all. This time of year is when non-churchgoers are more open to attending. Even if you’ve invited them recently and they’ve said no, reach out and extend the invitation to participate with you again. Just remember, if they say no, don’t get irritated with them and try lecturing them about why they should go. Let it be, and continue praying for them.

Lunch/Brunch/Dinner After Church

Do you know of an older adult (s), young family, etc., having a hard time? Whether it be job loss, death, financial struggle, or anything else someone could be struggling with, take time to reach out and invite them to a meal after church. This is a great way to get to know others you may not usually have the opportunity to get to know. Love on them, not just by paying for their meal but by listening and being present. Ask them about their lives and engage in conversation with them. Don’t prod; let them lead and open up as they feel led. Ask if you can pray over them before parting ways and then do so.

Volunteer

There are so many opportunities to volunteer. Check for local resources such as visiting the elderly in a nursing home, visiting sick children in the hospital, helping at a soup kitchen, adopting a family in need, and making sure they have gifts under the tree, food on the table, and a message about God’s love. These are just a few ideas to get you started thinking.

Give Homemade Treats

Make some extra goodies as you do your regular baking this holiday season. Put them in a decorative tin and take them to your neighbors. Drop some off at the local police department or fire station. Giving homemade treats is a fun and easy way to love on others, especially those that are often forgotten.

Be Helpful

If you’re at a holiday gathering, offer to help in the kitchen or see what else the host needs your help with. Not everyone likes service, especially in their kitchen, but making the offer goes a long way. You can also ask if they need you to bring anything. Once the meal is over, offer to help clean up, or better yet, don’t offer; just start doing.

Send A Package to Our Troops

Let’s never forget about all the men and women who serve our country to give us the freedom we have to celebrate. Holidays can be a challenging time for them as they are away from family and friends and sometimes can’t even call home! Put a smile on their faces and show them they’re loved and not forgotten this holiday by sending a care package.