The latter situation is most annoying. To have spent your money and people not come to partake in your food and drinks, this sucks. You could have put those resources elsewhere. And when people don’t let you know they are coming and show up, this is likewise annoying because you haven’t prepared for them and must now perform a fishes and loaves miracle to accommodate everyone.
Should you be annoyed? You most certainly are entitled to the feeling, but your actions should speak louder than the cross look on your face. In Luke 14:16 Jesus tells this story about a man who throws a party and everyone invited says they can’t make it. So in order for this man’s house to be filled and his food enjoyed, he sent his servant out into the streets and countryside to gather as many as would come. 3 simple tips from the P31, with some instruction from Jesus.
Tip 1: She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. (v20)
Most of us don’t have parties or events to directly lend a helping hand to the poor or needy. But we must always treat our guests, the courteous and uncourteous, with a spirit of giving.
Tip 2: She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm* clothes. (v21)
This is probably the most important of them all. Preparation. Winter RSVPs every year for the months of December-February. Some years it brings the uninvited Jack Frost, other years it barely shows up. The P31 is prepared with warm clothes. If winter brings Jack Frost, she’s got doubly warm clothing. If it didn’t bring it’s normal cold punch, she’s a giver. She can give to others that may not have even a windbreaker during winter months.
Tip 3: When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. (v26)
Revisiting the annoyed feeling. The kind, wise words will come in handy whether you have a no show RSVPer or a showup non-RSVPer.
Turn your annoyed look inside out and enjoy those who come to celebrate with you. If you’ve over prepared for you guests, find a place to donate the extras to. If you find yourself stretched because you have more guests than budgeted for, be creative, with a smile.
References: Proverbs 31:20,21,26,
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Add Yours →LOL…I remember once when my mother had a function and non-RSVPers showed up, mom pull out other food & told us to eat sandwiches! Creative…yes.