By Karen O'Connor
illustration by jesse reisch

When my family moved to a new house some years ago, a neighbor introduced me to what I now refer to as "hospitality on the run."  She welcomed me to the neighborhood with a smile, a hug and a beautiful glass jar filled with a blend of iced tea and juice crystals which she dubbed Friendship Tea.

"I can't stay long," she said, "but rather than wait 'til I can, I decided to drop by and let you know I'm happy you've moved in." We chatted for a few moments, and off she went. Her timing was perfect. I had been lonely that first week living far from old friends.

A tool you can use

Since then my husband, Charles, and I decided to carry on her tradition in our own way. We use hospitality on the run as a tool for evangelism. Not only do we welcome new neighbors or acquaintances with a smile and a hug, we also invite them to brunch or dinner. The fare might be as simple as scrambled eggs and English muffins with coffee, or as elegant as chicken breasts with plum sauce and iced tea served in fancy goblets.

We extended an invitation to the couple next door. They're not married, but they've been together for more than 20 years. They love good food, and my husband is a great cook. As we relaxed over a delicious meal, soft music and lively conversation, we noticed them open up.

We began praying for an opportunity to introduce them to the gospel. One Sunday morning soon after, our pastor announced that the church would begin offering classes for nonbelievers. The classes would provide a comfortable environment for people to get answers to their questions about Christianity.

He wound up attending all 13 sessions, participating in the discussions and saying he'd like to return when the classes are offered again. We plan to invite them both next time. Peter hasn't yet made a commitment to Christ, but we're praying he will soon. In the meantime we continue to develop the relationship and walk beside him on this journey. He continues to ask questions, and we continue to point him to Christ.

Hospitality  vs. entertaining

Chuck and Marita Noone of Albuquerque, New Mexico, have their own style of hospitality on the run during the work week since Marita is often out of town on weekends. "With work and family commitments, we don't always have an entire evening to spare," she says. "But, if we keep it simple, we have enough time to eat with people and enjoy meaningful conversation over a quick meal."

And, by keeping the focus on the comfort of your guests, rather than trying to impress them with your house-a  good definition of hospitality versus entertaining-you're showing the face of Christ by welcoming them with graciousness. Scented candles, pretty napkins, sparkling glasses, soft lighting and a nice table setting can make even the simplest fare seem like a feast, says Marita. "Dust and straighten up areas where your guests will be," she says, adding with a wink, "and let the rest go. When you focus on the people, not your housekeeping, they'll feel welcomed, and you'll be relaxed." And during such moments, people are generally open to hearing about your life-and the One you follow. 

Open doors

"Your home is the most natural venue for sharing your faith," says Richard Leach, NAMB's director of ministry evangelism. "Many non-Christians will never go to a church, but they might just come to your home for dinner or a party."

Are you pursuing God's agenda for your neighborhood? By opening your doors and looking for opportunities to minister to your neighbors you can transform your home into a lighthouse for Christ. 

You don't have to go too far to share Christ with others. Open your heart and home to your friends and neighbors with hospitality on the run!