This evening we went out for supper.
As a family.
Of five.
To the house of a family from church. (Feel the pressure mounting? We don't take our human tornadoes out much yet ;) )
They greeted us with boxes of the best-loved toys. They laughed at Kachi's table-drumming during dinner. And they only laughed more when Vava literally held her nose because she didn't want to smell the luscious lasagne. (!!!!)
And then their grown daughters took our kids downstairs so we could enjoy dessert and a chat in peace.
It was like a vacation.
It was wonderful.
It was kindness with skin on.
Now, it's just a hunch, but I'm betting they don't greet every guest with an introduction to their favourite old toys. I imagine they don't usually bring out highchairs and bright plastic cups. I am pretty confident that they put thought into meeting our specific needs and carefully planned for our family's pleasure.
They didn't welcome us into their home so we could worry about serving them. They welcomed and served us in love: giving us joy brought gladness to their own hearts.
I love that we have a God who delights to welcome us, serve us, and plans ahead for our pleasure.
He didn't send Jesus as a king for us to pamper and spoil. He didn't send Jesus as a conqueror to terrorize and defeat us. No ... He sent Him low, to serve us in love.
We needed a Saviour.
A humble Saviour, full of compassion and welcome.
And being welcomed, though undeserving, we too have the privilege to welcome others. To plan for their pleasure. To serve them in love, for the joy of it.
His hospitable heart shines bright in the faces of his children.
Merry Christmas, friends.
Xo.
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