The Lost Art of Simple Togetherness

Can we please bring back the simplicity of just being together?

While fancy dinner parties and gatherings certainly have their place, there’s something lovely about unplanned and unhurried fellowship.

I believe we were not created to impress one another but instead to genuinely love and care for each another.

Remember how Jesus most often gathered with his friends?

He met with others around simple tables, by quiet waters and, in gardens where the conversations were simple and uncomplicated. He allowed space for questions, and took his time with those he sat with. The setting was never what mattered, but it was about the people he was with.

What would it look like for us to do the same?

Let’s shake off the burden of perfection when it comes to hospitality!

Invite a neighbor for tea in your garden or coffee on your porch. If the outside is chilly, curl up on the couch with your friend and share a big fuzzy blanket along with your conversation
Bring out those playing cards that haven’t seen daylight in months
Use those paper plates from Christmas (the Lord doesn’t mind, and neither will your guests!)
Tidy up just enough to be comfortable, not showcase-ready
Light a candle that reminds you of His presence, and consider your space blessed

I’ve found in my own life the most meaningful connections happen when I’m not fussing over details but instead when I am fully present with those God has allowed me to cross paths with that day.

Our connections with one another don’t need fancy trimmings or social media approval to matter.

Joy is found not in a picture-perfect table but rather in the sweet sacred space tucked into the everyday ordinary moments when we are together.

Sharing life and walking beside another… in a world which feels “off” in a million ways, becomes a path for us to be the hands and feet of Jesus that our hurried world so desperately needs.

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below or if you would rather, send me an email to: hello@nancybouwens.com!

Walking with you-