“Hostess Hysteria” – Sandra Fischer
. . .Jesus. . .came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet. . .But Martha was distracted by all the preparations. . .She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me! ~ Luke 10:38-40 NIV
When reading this account, I readily identify with Martha. Many times, when I entertain people, I am distracted by all the preparations and work. While others enjoy time together, I am distracted, obsessed with making it a “Martha Stewart” type production. I forfeit true hospitality—a warm, friendly welcoming of personal interaction for a staged setting of perfection.
Yes, I want my events to be orderly and fulfilling, but as Jesus told Martha, “few things are needed.” Spending time with guests should take priority over excessive details. Jesus says that Mary chose the “better thing,” giving attention to Him. He did not discount Martha’s work, but it overshadowed her regard for His presence.
While I sympathize with Martha’s “hostess hysteria,” I realize such focus is a vain attempt to gain favor from others and God. If the table setting is askew or I have flour on my blouse, or I let the bread overbake, I need to replace “hostess hysteria” with “hostess hospitality.” I need to welcome guests in my home as if I were welcoming Jesus, whose desire is to see me, to spend time with me and for me to enjoy His presence.
Have you ever given a party and been so consumed with serving you missed spending time with guests? How can we balance the desire to serve well and enjoy our company too?
Lord, help me make my guests my priority by showing hospitality.
Sandra Fischer is a Platinum member who just released “Every Day is Christmas,” a book of Christmas stories for everyone. Contact
