Making a Difference: The Power of Simple Hospitality

In a world dominated by influencers, it can feel like we need to do big, impressive things to make a difference. But when I think about the people who have had the most meaningful impact on my life, they weren’t extraordinary in the world’s eyes. They were ordinary people who simply took an interest in me.

Maybe it’s time to stop chasing bigger and start focusing on smaller, more intentional acts of love and connection.

As a pastor’s wife, one thing I notice often is how many people feel deeply lonely. So many of us are longing for close friendships and authentic community, to be known and loved for who we are. Yet, for many, finding that kind of connection feels overwhelming or out of reach. This loneliness has only grown in recent years, after so much time spent in isolation.

We all need a place to belong. We all need to find “our people.” And we all need to know we matter to someone. While I can’t be best friends with everyone, I want to be part of the solution to this growing problem.

Related post———–>>>>>> An Easy Way to Build Community <<<<<<<<<

With that in mind, Messy Joyful Journey is heading in a slightly new direction. While this blog will always focus on relationships, I’m now leaning into addressing this loneliness epidemic.

By practicing simple, heartfelt hospitality, we can create opportunities to welcome strangers, deepen friendships, meet others’ needs, and become the kind of community we all long for.

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Make a Difference Simply by Showing you Care

One of the most influential people in my life is a woman named Brenda. She was the mother of the kids I babysat shortly after I got married. At the time, I had just moved across the country, far from family, and was learning how to navigate a new chapter of life as a wife.

Every time I came over to babysit, Brenda would take the time to make me tea and ask about my life. She welcomed me into her family and made me feel seen and valued. Through her simple acts of kindness, I not only felt less alone, but I also learned so much by observing her life. I watched how she and her husband parented their children, resolved conflict, and handled the daily ups and downs with grace. She didn’t just give me advice—she lived out her faith in a way that left a lasting impression.

To this day, I consider Brenda both a friend and mentor. Many of my ideas about marriage, parenting, and living out my faith stem from the lessons I learned just by being around her family.

Make a Difference by Bringing People Into Your Home and Life

Brenda didn’t need an immaculate house or elaborate meals to make an impact. In fact, I’m glad she didn’t! She let me see her real life—the chaos, the grace, and everything in between. Through that, I learned so much.

I saw how she and her husband handled conflict in healthy ways, and I was inspired by how their faith shaped their decisions. Their creativity as a family when they read aloud to their kids, and it forever shaped how I view education. I even learned from her grace-filled parenting, not just with her children but with me too. (Like the time I completely ruined one of her pans by burning a meal—I still feel bad about that one. Sorry, Brenda!)

Make a Difference by Being Real

The way I parent today has been heavily influenced by what I observed in Brenda’s family. Even the little things—like watching her juggle piles of laundry while packing for a family vacation—gave me a realistic glimpse into life with kids. To this day, I think of her whenever I’m tearing apart my house trying to pack for a trip!

Brenda will never fully know how much her willingness to let me into her day-to-day life impacted me. She didn’t have to be perfect; she simply lived out her faith and invited me into her world. For that, I am forever grateful.

What is Hospitality

When I talk about hospitality, I’m not just referring to being a great hostess. While hosting with flair is wonderful (and if that’s your gift, embrace it!), the heart of hospitality is about making people feel welcome. It’s about treating both strangers and friends with kindness and viewing everyone as an image-bearer of God.

In today’s world, it’s easy to fall into an “us versus them” mentality. But here’s the truth: “Them” is not the enemy. Even if someone is, God calls us to love our enemies. Building genuine relationships with people who are different from us has the power to break down barriers and foster understanding.

As a pastor’s wife, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know people I might not have naturally connected with. Over time, I’ve come to adore many of these individuals—not because I see a polished, superficial version of them, but because I’ve gotten a glimpse into their lives. When I take the time to learn about their struggles, their past, or their passions, I start to understand why they see the world the way they do. Their experiences often teach me valuable lessons. What a blessing that has been!

Practice Simple Hospitality to Make a Difference

I truly believe we can make a difference in the world, one person at a time, by practicing simple hospitality. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or overwhelming—just start small. Invite someone for coffee (or, if you’re in Utah like me, soda might be a better option!) or welcome them into your home for a meal. There’s something special about sitting around a table, sharing food, and getting to know each other.

What Can We Do?

Take a moment to think of someone you’d like to get to know better. Maybe it’s a neighbor you’ve only exchanged a wave with, an acquaintance, or even the babysitter. You never know what kind of impact you might have! Make a plan to invite them over for a glass of lemonade, tea, or even a simple meal.

If you’re not sure what to serve, I’ve got you covered. Check out my easy salad bar idea—perfect for summer gatherings: Best Summer Cobb Salad to Share With Friends or an easy ground turkey dish that is impossible to mess up.

I will continue to share recipes to take to a person in need and sweet treats to feed a crowd. I’m always open to new things to try if you have any suggestions.

This week, I challenge you to reach out to one new person and get to know them. Hospitality doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about connection and showing care.

Let me know in the comments: What are your go-to easy meals for feeding a crowd? Or do you have creative ways to reach out and make a difference? Let’s inspire each other to live out the kind of hospitality that can truly change lives.