editor’s note
I appreciate greatly the rhythm that Michigan’s four seasons bring to our lives. In
summer we go full force, living every moment we can outdoors. By the time fall
comes around I’m a bit exhausted from
all the adventures, but I’m not quite ready
to say goodbye to the lakes and the forests that make our state so wonderful.
I’m thankful for the opportunity that fall
offers to transition slowly back to a quieter pace of life. And as we’re now entering
winter I find myself again slowing down,
staying in more and seeking warmth in
blankets and bowls of soup.
One of the other main distinctions of this
cold, dark season is the holidays that mark it’s passage. From Thanksgiving to Christmas
to New Year’s, we have many opportunities to find warmth in the company of friends and
family. It is partly with an eye to these occasions that we’ve chosen to focus on hospitality
in this issue of the Calvary Life. More than just offering tips on how to host a holiday dinner,
we want to share with you the true biblical heart of hospitality that drives our desire to welcome others in all contexts of life.
The heart of hospitality from a biblical perspective is about making room, it’s about setting
aside our own desires to serve others. In this issue, Calvary staff and congregation members share how they have seen God at work as they’ve pursued learning and practicing
this sacrificial way of life. As you read, we hope you will see that hospitality is about more
than having a well-decorated home or showcasing an idealized version of your life. It is a
practice that has been modeled by Jesus and is achievable and expected for all of us. As
we seek to love like He has loved, may we be moved to offer a warm welcome in whatever
season we find ourselves. Despite the chill of winter that makes us want to shelter and
retreat, may we make room around our tables and in our lives for those who need to know
the best gift of all - Jesus Christ our Savior.
By Jackie Rice
Director of Communications
Jackie has been on staff at Calvary for 13 years. She loves all the seasons
for unique reasons - winter because it’s cozy!
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