Whimsical holiness and hospitality

For 2 years our Pastor, Rob Parker, has been hosting 'God In The Bar' at The Mahwah Bar and Grill.  I went for the first time this past Sunday night.  The purpose of the event is to provide an opportunity for people to engage in a dialogue about things of faith in a non-threatening setting.  The restaurant provides a private room off the dining room, sets the tables with wings, nachos and sliders and guests are given 2 drink tickets.  The night is free!  Costs are covered by donations given to The Plant church.  MB&G's has kindly partnered with Rob and given him this opportunity.  It's really an amazing thing... talking about truths from the Bible, in a bar, in Bergen County, NJ. 

I think Hugh Halter, author of Sacrilege and The Tangible Kingdom, would refer to this as "whimsical holiness".  "That is, holiness that can enjoy a good party, concert, or Sunday sporting event while maintaining lines of clear conscience and non-compromise." (TK Primer)  I like the concept because I think it's what Jesus would do.  He befriended prostitutes, tax collectors and outcasts.  He didn't surrounded Himself with people who talked and acted just like He did.  In fact, He was often annoyed with the religious leaders of His time because they were all about The Law and He was about love and mercy.  He spent time immersed in His culture getting to know the needs of others and healing them not hurting them.

So, make plans to Practice Hospitality in a whimsical way.  (Keep entertaining light and playful.)  Here are a few suggestions...  go on a picnic or have a picnic in your family room.  Have breakfast for dinner or better yet, dessert for dinner!  Invite guests over and make dinner together.  Organize a progressive dinner in your neighborhood.  Most importantly, have fun and be creative.  Think outside the box.  Also, get to know the needs of those around you by getting involved in your community where there are sure to be lots of opportunities to practice whimsical holiness and hospitality.
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Also, if you want more information about 'God In The Bar' check out The Plant's website, www.theplantchurch.org.  If you are interested in attending, let me know.  And if you have some great, whimsical hospitality ideas, let me know that too :-)