I like to keep an open house. When someone comes over, they see us as we are—nothing gets tossed in a closet or swept under the rug. I do not need an advance notice to prepare. The kids’ friends walk in and out as they wish, and they know that they are welcome to anything to eat or drink.
The Bible says to let your light shine before people because God will get the glory and people will take notice. The Message says, “Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God.” As you welcome others into your home, into your life, as you let them see the real you, there is a great testimony presented without you even saying a word.
I am blessed with some very special people in my life. They say their house is my house. I can go to visit and walk in and sit down like it is my own home. It is great. You feel wanted. You feel loved. You feel “at home.” I can only think of how it will be one day when we will all be at home—with our Father. Be generous with your lives. Show people love. Show people Jesus. You don’t have to make it difficult. Simply invite people in and watch how God uses the simple gestures to open doors you never saw coming.
“Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”
-Matthew 5:16 [MSG]
Tania Gutekunst 