Let the Biscuits Burn: Cultivating Real-Life Hospitality in a World Craving Connection

“God designed the table to be a space where we can leave our burdens behind and find deep, soul-level communion with him and others,” writes A Table Top Affair blogger Kuykendall (The Living Table) in this upbeat hospitality guide. Despite the popularity of picture-perfect Martha Stewart–style entertaining, hospitality isn’t about performing perfection but fulfilling God’s commandment to serve others, Kuykendall explains, even when the occasion is thrown together or last minute, like inviting neighbors to bring their own dinners to eat at one’s home. Encouraging Christians to consider what makes them feel welcome, she shares tips for creating inviting spaces and keeping easy, prep-free staples on hand, like Pillsbury crescent rolls or Ritz crackers. Other chapters focus on how to expand one’s community through events, including by organizing bring-a-friend get-togethers or inviting guests from different social circles. While Kuykendall’s tone can become preachy, readers will be won over by her cheery encouragement to cast aside perfection—“God isn’t coming to critique your burnt biscuits or mismatched plates”—and inspired by her frequent scriptural references, as when she notes that despite not having a home, Christ routinely fed misfits and strangers or invited them to join him. Even the most perfectionist Christians will be inspired to open up their homes. (Sept.)