A table doesn’t have to look like a magazine to be a place of welcome. Sometimes there are mismatched plates, yesterday’s mail, and something in the oven that’s taking longer than it should.

Romans 12:9–13 places hospitality alongside sincere love, patience in trouble, and faithfulness in prayer. Welcoming someone isn’t an impressive extra for people with beautiful homes. It is one practical expression of love.

Contributing to the needs of the saints, and given to hospitality.Romans 12:13

That does not mean ignoring your limits or saying yes to everything. But perhaps there’s room for one simple invitation this week: tea with a friend, a walk together, or a meal without apologizing for the house.

A few things to think about

Who might appreciate a little company this week? What expectation makes welcoming someone feel harder than it needs to be?

Something small for the week

Reach out to one person. Offer something you can genuinely give. A thoughtful message counts; so does a place at an ordinary table.