The word “hospitality” has always intimidated me. Hospitality is definitely not one of my gifts, yet Scripture commands all of us to be hospitable. Part of my fear comes from knowing I’m not an experienced cook, and I have always equated hospitality with feeding guests. Why would God ask me to do something for which He didn’t give me a gift?

Jen Schmidt answers this question with a clarification at the beginning of her book, Just Open the Door, when she makes a distinction between hospitality and entertaining: Entertaining elevates the host while hospitality honors the guests.

That’s the heart of hospitality: to point others to Him, to love on one another while affirming His goodness.

Suddenly, the task of hospitality doesn’t seem so daunting. As Schmidt touches on everything from writing a purpose statement for your home to getting your husband on board to working with a small space or budget, the concept of hospitality becomes attainable. And the beauty is it happens one step at a time. Just open the door.

Hospitality doesn’t have to happen within the walls of your home. It can be as simple as listening to an elderly neighbor’s stories or a neighborhood pick-up game. And showing hospitality in everyday moments can open doors to sharing the Gospel. What a legacy we can leave as we teach our children to carry on a tradition of hospitality!

One invitation can change a generation.

As a result of reading this book, I am finding myself looking for “open door opportunities.” I have tried to make my home more inviting without worrying so much about the mess. I am trying to say “yes” more when facing connection building situations. When all is said and done, the only thing you can take with you to Heaven is the people you’ve touched along your journey.

How about you? Are you ready to open the door?

P.S. Don’t miss the companion study to this book.