Email: lmfarm@junct.com

1 Peter 4:9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging. KJV

How well I remember the early years of our marriage when times were a little hard for my husband and I. We moved from Oklahoma to "spread our wings, and seek greener pastures." My husband was in the constructions business and followed work wherever he could find it. We had two toddlers, so it wasn't hard for me to pack up our things and move.

Some distant relatives found us and it wasn't long before we struck up quite a friendship. They were our surrogate parents since neither my husband's parents nor mine were close at hand.

They frequently invited us over for board games and hot meals, which we both enjoyed tremendously. They had no television, but we always managed to entertain ourselves. Many Fridays they would talk us into staying over the night and we'd reluctantly return home Saturday night.

Bert (shortened for Bertha) managed to send us back home, with jellies, canned goods, and homemade pie. She frequently made clothes for both of our kids. Bill made games for our son to take home or sent his favorite marbles. No one went home empty handed.

They were not wealthy in the things of the world, but they shared food, time, and what little material things they did have leaving a warm spot in our heart for a lifetime. Their life spoke volumes of the word in every deed.We walked into the house of relatives, but into a home filled with laughter, Godly love and peace.

The next time you think your gift of hospitality means nothing, think again. We may not realize just how much one small deed could make a difference in someone's life. Mark 9:41: For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. KJV

Copyright 2003  by Marie Williams