#22 Leslie Verner [Invited: The Power of Hospitality in an Age of Loneliness]

My guest for episode #22 is Leslie Verner. Leslie's time overseas introduced her to cultures where strangers are invited in and guests linger. In her brand new book, Invited: The power of hospitality in an age of loneliness, Leslie shares stories of being invited in and of times where she felt like no one was welcoming her. Today on the show, Leslie and I talk about how all she ever wanted to do was go. She had planned on a life abroad, getting her Ph.D. and never settling down. During a visit back in the states, Leslie met a man who interrupted her plan. Leslie now lives in Colorado with her husband and three kids and is learning how to stay. We talk about how Jesus asked some of his disciples to stay and what that could mean for us. Leslie and I talk about the biblical definition of hospitality and the power of an invitation. She shares how simple it can really be and how sometimes it means saying yes to someone else's invitation. She shares about her impromptu driveway party and how hot dogs can make hospitality easier. Leslie talks about having room in your schedule to invite, and the flexibility to veer from your routine in order to be with people. We also talk about the need to recharge so you're not trying to give from an empty well. Leslie says the whole bible is an invitation and we should invite because God invited us and continues to invite us in.   Mentioned in this episode Invited: The power of hospitality in an age of loneliness   Leslie's Favorite 5 Gardening Stranger Things – Season 3 A Candle in the Window Hospitality Network Hot Dogs A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23   Connect with Leslie Instagram | Facebook | Website   Connect with Girls Talking Life Show Notes for this Episode | Instagram | Facebook