04.10.08
Practice Hospitality
Something that I really wasn’t aware of until we moved to Ancona, was how important hospitality is when you’re a missionary. We constantly have people in our homes, whether it’s church members, friends, or someone just passing through.
Our life in the US wasn’t like this at all. We rarely had people in our home. Part of the difference is cultural. In the US, you go out to eat with guests rather than make a big meal as is common here. But I think part of the difference is that hospitality is sort of going out of style. Our homes have become a little bubble that we live in, and we’d really rather not have anyone else in the bubble with us.
Paul says in the book of Romans that we are to “practice hospitality.” Making guests feel comfortable is supposed to be a part of a Christian’s life. The thing is, I don’t think hospitality comes naturally to some. I’m fortunate to have a wife who excels at this. People have said to us before that our home feels like a second home to them (and that’s all Heidi’s fault!).
So what do you do when it doesn’t come naturally? Maybe I’m taking a liberty with what Paul was intending, but I think we need to practice. We can’t learn if we don’t try. Start small. Have someone over for coffee. Invite a neighbor for a casual dinner. Volunteer to have Christmas at your house this year. The more we do it, the more natural it becomes. By inviting people into our “bubbles” they get to see what makes Christians tick. Sharing a meal brings an intimacy that isn’t found in day-to-day life.
Practice makes perfect.
Emily H. said,
04.14.08 at 10:57 am
I definitely felt like your home in Perugia was home for me. From the gift bag on my pillow to the yummy tiramisu and gnocchi that I got to eat, it was wonderful spending time in your bubble! Your wife most definitely has the gift of hospitality. You’re a lucky man Brian Rotert!
Katy Smelser said,
04.15.08 at 8:44 am
We sure enjoyed being on the receiving side of your family’s hospitality last week. All the good fellowship was certainly a great part of coming down to plan the Mid-Winter Rally. We appreciated the opportunity to get to know all of you better, to laugh and trade thoughts and ideas. Not to mention the good food…….And now I can picture you in your own home and neighborhood, too. Thanks again to the whole Rotert family!
Greta Meece said,
05.30.08 at 1:17 pm
I read with delight you comments on hospitality. It is so true we American’s live in our own little bubbles. It became so real to me after living many years in Africa where there is always time for others. Sharing yourself is at the top for a child of God, we build relationships only by sharing with others.
Heidi and Brian it was a joy to be in you home last September, hospitality came naturally for your family. Thanks.