If you were asked to define biblical hospitality how would you choose to describe it? The topic and the definition should be dear to our hearts as believers for as we practice hospitality we share what we have with those whom God brings into our lives. Biblical hospitality is focused on having a heart for service, asking our heavenly Father to creatively stretch what we have to offer refreshment to others, as well as using our time and energy to add joy to our daily lives.
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What is your reaction when you think of the holiday season? Did you know that the holiday season is actually a “holy-season” that should bring us closer to the event or person we are celebrating? Contrary to current practice, Thanksgiving Day is rooted in an occasion focused on thanking God for His provision rather than parades, football games, and shopping at odd hours. Our study of American history reminds us that the Pilgrims had experienced an incredibly difficult year, yet they chose to be thankful. Christmas is the birthday of our Savior who was born in the humblest of circumstances and gave the best gift ever—salvation. So, what are some ways that you can make this holiday season one that is “holy”? Let’s begin with an assessment of our Holiday IQ.
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Did you know that a hot, spicy meal can reduce stress? Research suggests that hot foods trigger the release of endorphins, the natural chemicals that trigger feelings of euphoria and well being, thereby reducing stress.[i] Made ahead and frozen in serving sized portions this tasty and nutritious dish can also eliminate the “what’s for dinner?” question that often stimulates stress. While Italy offers us the traditional recipe for this classic dish other world cuisines provide interesting variations. Several are offered following the traditional lasagna recipe.
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What is your first reaction when you open the door to your refrigerator or freezer? Attractive and orderly or like the mature stages of a science project? Maintaining a well organized refrigerator and freezer is another way we “look well to the ways of our household” (Proverbs 31:27) and practice good stewardship. Maintaining a model refrigerator and freezer is an important component at Horner Homemaking House since tour guests often open the refrigerator—without permission! Perhaps the guidelines we use will assist you in caring for these significant “household servants” so that they provide optiomal performance for you.
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Laundry is like our bills, always needing attention! It seems like a pretty mundane task with little or no spiritual ramifications on the surface. However, a closer look reminds us that believers are to be faithful with all of their possessions (1 Corinthians 4:2). The wise woman of Proverbs 31:27 cares for the needs of her household. One of the primary needs of a household is clothing and its maintenance.
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Chicken is the mainstay of summer cuisine and the backbone of the economical kitchen (Proverbs 31:27). Chicken is usually the most inexpensive of all meat cuts and is useful down to the bones! Consider what you can do with one whole bird (the least expensive way to purchase chicken).
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What is your annual budget for cleaning supplies? Even with the help of coupons or purchasing the products at a warehouse club, the total cost by the end of the year can be hefty. One way to save money is to use resources already found in your pantry or medicine cabinet and make them do double duty as cleaning agents. This blog post was created to help you identify which products can replace some of the pricey name-brand products. The natural products are also safer and healthier to use.
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My mother was the original Martha Stewart! Our home was always a special blend of comfort and cleanliness. She firmly believed the statement that “cleanliness is next to godliness!” As an only child I “shadowed” her daily as she made our home a haven of order and peacefulness that was a refuge from worldly chaos and disorder. When her arthritic condition placed perimeters around the tasks she could perform I was able to assume many of the household responsibilities. Entering college as a Home Economics/Family and Consumer Science major I then learned the management strategies that aligned with my existing skills.
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