On a warm evening, the smell of lilacs nearby fill the air as Papa and Mama sit together on the old wicker swing, hand in hand. The glow of the lamp coming from just inside the window casts a glow over the entire porch. You could hear the family next door on their porch talking softly, while off in the distance, a dog is barking.

As American as apple pie, the front porch is a vital part of a home. It not only serves to guard the entrance to a home but it is also a place to share God with others. Here we can find a place to relax while listening to the birds chirping or a woodpecker busily working on a nearby tree. We delight in God’s presence on this porch welcoming Him into our conversations, and in our attitude towards others.

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:2

All Are Welcome

A porch serves as a transitional barrier that protects the front door of a home. To be able to access the inside of the house, one must cross the porch to be able to enter the front door. Likewise, to be able to gain access to heaven and eternal life, one must accept Christ. Once they have, they will be able to walk through the door to heaven.

Christ is warm and loving, and welcomes us with open arms. He loves us regardless of how damaged we are. Are we as welcoming to strangers and those that live near us? Can we look past the imperfections and flaws in someone and be as loving and inviting as Christ is?

As challenging and uncomfortable as it may be, we as Christians should strive to share our front porch with those that need to hear the gospel and feel the love of Christ. A lonely neighbor or someone going through a difficult season in their life could use a person like you.

How do I “share” my front porch?

Create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your front porch. It should be the very thing that hugs and welcomes those who visit your home. Make this space an area where you find a peaceful outdoor spot to have your coffee and devotional.

Invite someone over for casual conversation with some homemade lemonade and cookies. As you talk, you will certainly get a sense of what’s going on in their lives. If the opportunity to share God’s word or pray with them presents itself, trust that God will give you the right words for the occasion.

Sometimes all a person needs is someone to pray with them and to lend them your ear to talk. You will be amazed at how God will work through you to help them.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Colossians 3:16

Some Fantastic Ideas For A Sharing Porch

Make some handwritten scripture cards for various situations. When you have someone over you can give them a reminder that God loves and cares for them.
Always have your Bible laying on a table nearby to share scripture while talking.
Plan a weekly porch prayer meeting with friends and neighbors.
Dress up your porch with flowers, ferns, and green plants.
Add comfortable seating with some pillows.
Porch swings are always inviting and the focal point of front porches.
Place an outdoor rug on porch that compliments the surroundings.
Add a charming door wreath to the front door.
Apply vinyl scripture to a blank space.

Sit For A ‘Spell’

Make your front porch a place that fosters a sense of hospitality, community, and love for those that visit. You may be surprised at how a simple area such as a porch initiates interaction between those passing by and yourself.

How can anyone resist a great place to take a load off their feet with good company?