In Tolkien's classic novel, Lord of the Rings, there appear two of my favorite characters - Tom Bombadil and his lady Goldberry. They offer a much needed sanctuary to the four lost Hobbits. They play the perfect host by offering them bath, food, bed. They are a symbol of pure joy. They so beautifully soothe the fears of the Hobbits, tell tales, answer questions and make them laugh. And they utter one of the most beautiful goodnight wishes ever.
“Have peace now until the morning!
Sleep till the morning-light, rest on the pillow!
Heed no nightly noise!
Fear no grey willow!”
A side note. Though these two characters feature in the novel, they don't make the cut into the movie. Peter Jackson claims that the character's contribution bore little relevance to the overall plot.
This, to me is the ultimate model for hosting. Total, un-adulterated and joyful giving and caring for their guests, who are total strangers. There is someone I know who comes close to this. It's my wife, Grace.
Grace embodies the perfect host. She takes the time to cook in advance to ensure that she's able to spend quality time with the guests as opposed to cooking when they are present. And she does cook quite a spread. She takes the time to understand the guest's dietary restrictions if any and makes sure that they are well fed.
During the meal, she makes every effort to make the guests feel heard. She is so present in the conversations and never fails to ask those brilliant probing questions. And all this, without expecting anything in return.
Grace amazes me, both literally and theologically!
Me on the other hand - my palms are closed, my mind wanders and my heart doesn't feel and understand the need of the guests. I'd rather sit with my books or do my "stuff" rather than giving the essence of my time to our guests. And this is something which I am learning from Grace and I hope to catch up with her someday.
Hospitality is a gift that is to be shared without any expectation. Yes, it involves time, resources and our energy. But we need to do it with the best that we can offer to our guests and strangers who come seeking our sanctuary.
And this, is what I've learnt from Tom Bombadil, his lady Goldberry and my lady Grace.
And I want my house to be titled as such.