Company's Coming!

Company’s coming! Quick - tidy up!

Is this a reality for anyone but me? I don’t think so. I have a friend whose husband once asked her why they couldn’t just let their guests see their house in its natural state. She thought he was joking.

What do you do to prepare for company? For me, it depends somewhat on the situation. If immediate family or close friends drop in, they may well find us in a state of disarray and I’m okay with that! A quick tidy blitz (you know, make sure there are no clothes on the bathroom floor, quickly load the dishwasher and move shoes out of the way of the front door) and then I'm good for a cup of tea.

If I am expecting friends we don’t see as often, or it’s a special occasion, there tend to be added preparations - freshly vacuum and dust throughout, stash the toaster and kettle as I declutter the counters, spruce up the bathroom. That kind of thing.

Okay, so imagine the Master has moved into the neighbourhood and is coming for tea! Whoa!!

Let’s see...totally clean house (we’re talking washing windows here, people!)...prepare the most elaborate treats my baking skills can muster...light the candles...put out the red carpet (where does one get a red carpet, anyway?!)...don my fanciest clothes. There - ready to honour Him with my best.

I picture our Guest entering our home. No notice is given to the neat house...no comment on the aroma coming from the kitchen…no appreciation voiced about the fancy tea cups I brought out of storage.

None of that matters. He is more interested in what is going on in my soul. Is my heart centred on Him? How are my relationships faring? How is my hope holding up? What burdens of concern do I have for Him to carry?

Since the first Christmas, God HAS moved into the neighbourhood. And, yes, He deserves the very best we can bring. But, by His grace, we are family to Him. No need for fuss and bother. Just be ourselves... and rest in His presence.

Company’s coming! Quick - open up!