A few weeks ago, I attended a leadership rally for women’s ministry. Jessica Neil, the minister to women, at Scottsdale Bible Church gave the most beautiful talk. Her words have rolled around in my head and have settled into my heart.

She talked about pouring punch.

I’m paraphrasing her beautiful words, and I truly hope I do them justice.

She said some people line the cups up, pour the punch, and move those people through the line efficiently and quickly. I sat up straight, proud of my efficient nature. I thought about how I like to check-off to do lists, moving through my day at lightening speed.

But her mother taught her differently. She taught her to pour the punch one cup at a time. To welcome the guest, ask them how they were doing, and look into their eyes, not taking one glance at the line, while they answer.

Efficient? No.

Beautiful? Yes.

The way each of us craves to be treated? Yes.

The way He would have us see, really see each other? Yes.

These words rolled around, stirred something deep, and I wanted to make a change. When the big kids were little, I was so good about having them greet our guests and visit with them, no matter what they were involved in. As they’ve gotten older, I’ve been too lenient about this. Some guests barely received a nod sometimes. This was my fault.

The next day, we were expecting a guest. Just a short visit for a few questions they needed to ask about photography. I sat down and shared the story with the kids about how to pour the punch. Without any prompting, they started brainstorming ideas about how they could make people feel special and seen.

It was such a good reset. I hope it helps remind you of what is important. It isn’t the to-do list. It’s the people you are doing that list for.