Holy Hosting: Coffee, Chips, & Dip

Lilia Grundy accepts spontaneous invitations as divine graces, inspiring her commitment to hospitality and meaningful connections like Abraham's.

Guests Galore 

My phone buzzed again; a new notification. I just had received a text message from a relatively new acquaintance asking if I would be available to meet — my house being the designated meeting spot.  

I found myself in a whirlwind of spontaneous invitations. I called them my “impromptu” meetups. I had received various requests from friends to either meet up or host gatherings at my home. I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension.  

The thought of welcoming guests and organizing get-togethers felt daunting, especially with my busy schedule. However, as I reflected on these opportunities, I remembered the story of Abraham and his remarkable hospitality. 

Inspired by Abraham's willingness to serve and his genuine care for his guests, I decided to embrace this challenge wholeheartedly. I recalled how Abraham rushed to greet the strangers and prepared a feast for them, all while maintaining a spirit of joy and generosity.  

When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of the tent to greet them; and bowing to the ground, he said, "Sir, if it please you, do not go on past your servant.” (Genesis 18:2b-3) 

Heavenly Hospitality 

I realized the recent invites were not just social obligations; they were chances to connect, share, and create lasting memories with others. So, I set aside my reservations and began planning for each gathering. 

As the week unfolded, I found joy in preparing my schedule to welcome friends. I selected local coffee houses to meet for coffee. I set up cozy spaces for conversation and made sure there were plenty of chips and dip to be served at my home.  

I began to interpret my impromptu encounters as what I can only describe as signal graces from heaven. Each invitation felt like a gentle nudge, a chance to deepen my faith. I vowed in my heart to keep all of them in my prayers.  

Embracing the Encounters 

I started to see my guests as divinely sent into my life, each carrying their own unique perspectives, and blessings. This realization transformed my approach to hospitality from a mere obligation to a sacred opportunity. 

In reflecting on the story of Abraham, I recognized that the strangers who visited him were not just random travelers; they were messengers of God, bringing with them a promise and a purpose. Each person who reached out to connect with me seemed to arrive at a moment when I needed their presence the most or they needed mine.  

Ultimately, my latest invitations have become a source of joy and inspiration for me. By welcoming "sent" visitors into my life, I am opening myself to the blessings that come from genuine relationships. Each encounter is a chance to reflect on the grace that surrounds me, reinforcing threads of love, kindness, and divine purpose. 

Your Turn:

Have you received invitations to connect with friends or acquaintances in the middle of your busy week? How did you respond? What can we do to make these requests for connections meaningful and faith filled? 

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Copyright 2025 Lilia Grundy
Images: Canva