Chapter 116—Religious Hospitality
We would be much happier and more useful if our home life and
social intercourse were governed by the meekness and simplicity of
Christ. Instead of toiling for display, to excite the admiration or the
envy of visitors, we should endeavor to make all around us happy by
our cheerfulness, sympathy, and love. Let visitors see that we are
striving to conform to the will of Christ. Let them see in us, even
though our lot is humble, a spirit of content and gratitude. The very
atmosphere of a truly Christian home is that of peace and restfulness.
Such an example will not be without effect....
In our efforts for the comfort and happiness of guests, let us not
overlook our obligations to God. The hour of prayer should not be
neglected for any consideration. Do not talk and amuse yourselves
till all are too weary to enjoy the season of devotion. To do this is to
present to God a lame offering. At an early hour of the evening, when
we can pray unhurriedly and understandingly, we should present our
supplications, and raise our voices in happy, grateful praise.
Let all who visit Christians see that the hour of prayer is the most
precious, the most sacred, and the happiest hour of the day. These
seasons of devotion exert a refining, elevating influence upon all who
participate in them. They bring a peace and rest grateful to the spirit.—
The Review and Herald, November 29, 1887
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