I suppose the “correct” way to do things is to be completely prepared for every and all situations, to read the manual, to go to the class and measure everything out just right.  But in my experience if i did all that i would never accomplish a thing. 

I think inviting people over for dinner is the perfect example.  I know when i have guests in my home i want my home to appear well kept, have the best meal prepared, the children with stain-less shirts and the fine china on the table. 

A dear friend taught me a valuable lesson a few years back.  It was 4:30 in the evening we were on the phone talking about something completely unrelated to dinner and she said, “why don’t you guys come over for dinner?”  She had little time to prepare, no formal dinner plans, and her home had….gasp..toys on the floor!  I don’t remember what we had for dinner i don’t remember the decorations she had in her living room but I do remember I felt so at home.  I had such an enjoyable time and felt so relaxed in her home we have been dear friends ever since.  I find I enjoy being with the friends that don’t care if there is dust on my pictures far more than the friends that silently compete for the finest decorated home.

So the moral of the story is just dive in already! Have a beautifully imperfect dinner date.  They will probably love you for it.  I think Jesus meant it when he said, “come as you are”  No preparation needed.