We always automatically “grade” our hosts. It’s why online reviews and sites like Yelp exist. But how often do you consider whether or not you were a good guest?
Each culture has a different response the the guest/host dynamic, and each of us are taught to engage in that relationship differently by our parents (or other influential people). So, I’m curious: how do you act as a gracious guest, and how do you expect your guests to behave?
The popular Disney movie The Beauty and the Beast would suggest that in order to be a guest, one must just simply be. “Be our guest, be our guest, put our service to the test!” Belle is encouraged to sit and be served. In some places, this is the expectation. Full service restaurants, for example. But is that the expectation in someone’s home?
The biblical story of Mary and Martha having Jesus as a guest in Luke 10 reveals a harried Martha struggling to prepare every aspect of a meal for Jesus and his disciples. She snaps at Mary for simply spending time with their guest, and learning from the God of the universe. Jesus didn’t offer to help with the meal, or set the table. Instead, he offered wisdom and teaching, hoping Mary and Martha would listen. The meal does have to end up on the table somehow, though. So where do we find this balance?
I think fondly of family gatherings at my grandparents’ home. Family members arrive throughout the morning of a holiday and bring various dishes. Conversation flows throughout every room in that dear house as salad is made, bread is sliced, the table is set, and even more family members arrive. Everyone contributes to both culinary and conversational delights.
I also think of my dear friends who host a group of young women every Monday and Friday evening. We arrive sometime around dinner, where we find that everything already smells delicious. We don’t have to bring anything, though we often help set the table. All that is expected is that we rest and enjoy the company of the group.
There isn’t one specific way to be a good guest. Instead, there are many different ways to be a great one. Show gratitude and humility. Offering to help, especially if you sense that your host feels overwhelmed.
This past weekend, I visited a friend in Brussels, and stayed at her home. She already had quite a busy weekend planned, and I was grateful for her hospitality in spite of that. Enjoy the pictures of Brussels!
Le Grande Place (main square) in Brussels.
Lizzy and I exploring Brussels!
On Sunday morning, Abriel ran a 20k, ending under this beautiful archway. We went to cheer her on at the finish line after church.
Abriel (center left) was our host for the weekend! She and her financé David are getting married in July.
Relaxing in a serene park after the 20k.
