Almost a year ago...

It was almost a year ago that I found myself sitting at a memorial service I never dreamed I would be attending in my twenties.

Two very dear friends of mine lost their mother last year.

I just wanted to share a couple of things I learned from their mother, in the countless times I ate dinner at their house, played games at their house, and worshipped together with her in church.

Perhaps the most significant lesson I learned from Linda was that hospitality is about welcoming people into your home and serving them. It has nothing to do with what you have to offer, how much money you have to spend, or the kind of home you have to share with them. It is all about your heart.

Linda always opened the doors of her home to our youth group, and usually fed us all too. Once we went away to school, so would always have me over for dinner when I was home on break. I can't tell you what she served, or about the plates we ate off of, but I always knew I was welcomed and wanted when she invited me to their home. She probably taught me more about the gift of hospitality than anyone else in my life thus far.

Another wonderful lesson I learned from Linda was the value of playing with your kids- no matter what age they are! I can't think of any other friend I had growing up whose parents played games with us. Some of my fondest memories in the Wilfong home were spent around the kitchen table playing dominoes, cards, or any number of games. Looking back on it now, I can see how valuable that time must be as a parent, to truly get to know your children - and their friends! But I can also see how it fosters an environment that values interacting with each other, and one of fun.

Her life was one anchored by her faith in Christ. She was a dedicated prayer warrior, perhaps most fervently for her family, and there is no doubt in my mind that her prayers saw them through all kinds challenges and hardships.

If you are a praying person, would you take a minute to lift up the family she left behind? I know this time of year will always be an emotional for them (and for all those who were loved by Linda), so I know your prayers would be a blessing to them. And me.