Wise party planning makes miracles unnecessary
"Nearby stood six stone water jars, … each holding twenty to thirty gallons."
- John 2:6 (NIV)
Summer is a season for parties. Party planning has been around for centuries and has stood the test of time.
In ancient biblical times, Jesus was invited to a wedding where the man in charge may not have planned appropriately, because in the middle of the reception, he ran out of wine, which was considered a disgrace.
At that point, Jesus took over. Through his miraculous powers to transform, he changed six large pots of water into jars filled with the finest wine and saved the celebration and the host from embarrassment.
So, when you're planning a party, you want to plan wisely and have enough food and drinks for your guests so you can decrease your anxiety and reduce the need for a miracle.
Over the ages, a variety of celebrations have been a part of family life. Social media has made it possible to extend an invitation to many, although grandparents, aunts and uncles, who are the most likely to attend, may need an invitation the old-fashioned way.
When posting or sending an invitation, an R.S.V.P. should be requested. This means you want a response so you know how many are attending. Without a head count, you can't plan for the proper amount of food, drinks and necessary tableware.
Some guests may offer to bring their favorite dish to share, or you may want others to lend a helping hand by bringing food. When this is the case, coordinate what each one will bring. Otherwise, you could end up with five dishes of the same kind.
Also, if you enjoy the cake a family member or friend usually brings to each occasion, let them know how much you enjoy their dish and you'd like it if they would make it for your event. Don't assume it will miraculously appear on your banquet table.
For more elaborate parties, you can get a book on party planning or do a Google search for articles on the subject.
I believe following these few simple tips - and a few prayers along the way - can help make your party a special celebration.
• Annettee Budzban is an author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She is available to speak to your church, business, civic organization or be your personal life coach. She can be contacted at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.