Last weekend we hosted a birthday party celebrating another year of Mr. Awesome’s life. We closed off the bedrooms, opened every other door in our 1,500 sq. ft. home, swept the garage, moved a few things, and welcomed in over 90 friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family members. A few guests we hadn’t even met before, but we were delighted to serve them anyway.
Yes, truly delighted.
You see, we prayed for this party for weeks. We prayed for clear skies so we could use our spacious backyard, but God had other plans. Early that afternoon, massive sheets of rain rolled in, and we realized we’d be hosting indoors. We were away at a volleyball tournament all morning and couldn’t prepare our home as fully as we’d hoped, but we trusted it would be enough. Above all, we prayed that our home would be a safe place for people to gather, connect, and feel welcome.
This party wasn’t about us. This party was about God. It was about connecting His people.
And that’s exactly what happened. People from different walks of life, from different circles, came together. Some we’ve known forever, others we’ve barely met. Yet the kindness, the laughter, the easy conversations, oh you guys, it was so beautiful to watch.
At one point, I slipped away to the bathroom, sank to the floor, and simply thanked God for His marvelous works. Later that evening, as I walked through our little ranch home, the basement, and the garage, I listened in on conversations full of encouragement, laughter, and life. My heart was overflowing with pure joy.
I hadn’t stressed over cleaning (and it showed, piles on the fridge, smudges on the windows, toys and mail tucked here and there). I hadn’t stressed over food either. We served sub sandwiches, chips, and cake, with simple drinks and disposable dinnerware. Somehow the 24 feet of subs we ordered fed everyone, with just enough leftovers to bless others and still feed our family for two more meals.
From the very first “yes” to hosting, until we clipped the final bag of chips shut, everything worked out. God provided, just as He always does. He is so gracious.
I serve a faithful, loving God who delights in seeing us open our homes. Not just to those who can repay the favor, but to everyone He places in our path.
Would you consider hosting a gathering where all are truly welcome?
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