There are moments when you pause, look back, and realize just how much God has done. Our recent “Five Years & Forward” gathering was one of those moments. From the time guests arrived, the evening was imbued with warmth and intention. Friends gathered, conversations flowed, and our hearts quickly overflowed with gratitude, not only for…
Bringing New Attitudes to the Christmas Table Have you ever been witness to a sweet soul behaving badly? Watching an angry passenger on a plane, a ticked-off diner at a restaurant, or a maniacal driver on the highway can evoke a physical response. Your body stiffens and every hair on the back of your neck…
Almost everyone envisions a family feast around the table during the holidays. But have you ever imagined sharing your table with more than just your family? Many years ago, on Thanksgiving morning, I discovered that a recently widowed neighbor did not have a place to celebrate the holiday. I felt God prompt me to invite…
I find it very fun to have fun. I’m not quite sure where everybody else lands on this idea, but I am extremely motivated by fun. I find that much of life is hard and full of difficult things, so giggling and having fun is always such a treat. When I look back over my…
As a Christian that believes we are saved by grace through faith alone, why do I think it’s important to serve others, specifically by hosting? It’s not just important to serve, it’s important that when we serve we do it out of a heart of love and with joy. When we open up our homes…
Editor’s Note: We are pleased to welcome Tina Toedt to The Sublime Soiree blog today! Not only is Tina a wonderful friend, but she also is an author with great wisdom on retirement. Be sure to look for Tina’s upcoming book, The Art of Retirement: Opening the Next Door, available where books are sold in…
Editor’s Note: We recently polled several people with the following question on hospitality: “Proverbs 11:24-25 says, ‘One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings a blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.’ As you think about times that…
Jesus once said, “it is better to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35), but have you ever noticed with God that when you do give, you receive so much unexpected return? This month, we are painting portraits of the inviter, and one of the glorious blessings we have noticed among inviters is that they glean…
If you want to understand God’s invitations more deeply and live with greater security and hope, we would love to stay connected.