I'm sipping "pretend tea" from a 2 ounce teacup extended to me by my 18 month-old granddaughter. Her smile expresses her delight in my "drinking" her tea. I delight in her simple gesture of hospitality.

Simple - that is the way to describe what Kyleigh had done. She hadn't labored long hours over her brew or stressed over which table service to use. Her hand was simply extended with a smile on her face.

I enjoy having guests in my home but must guard against getting caught up in my "Martha" tendencies and attempts at recreating the entertaining pages of "Better Homes & Gardens." If hospitality becomes a chore because of my self-imposed expectations, I violate the command in I Peter4:9, to "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling." An obedient heart and simple service is all Christ requires.

Spontaneous invitations to "come on over" have resulted in some of the most enjoyable gatherings I've hosted, yet there have been times when I let opportunities slip by because I felt unprepared. Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Entertaining angels? I may have missed out! I now have some simple things I do to prepare to be spontaneous.

For a quick treat, I keep a brownie mix or frozen "break-n-bake" cookie dough on hand and for a light meal, the ingredients for spaghetti or simple casserole are in my pantry or freezer. I stock up on paper products to make serving and clean up simple. When I grab my coat to head out the door, I glance around to see if anything needs to be straightened up in my "entertaining space" so that I would feel comfortable welcoming someone back home with me. The key is, don't let excuses rob you of the privilege of entertaining an angel.

Hospitality is a matter of willing heart, extended hand and keeping it simple - not to mention we are commanded to do so!

Cindy Bushen serves on the board of Women of Grace USA as treasurer. She is employed at Grace Brethren Investment Foundation and serves in her church in many areas, including women's ministry and care ministries.