I can't host in a messy house

I was reading a book about spiritual direction when I came across an idea that stopped me. It talked about spiritual direction being a form of hospitality, in that a director creates the space for a directee to notice and respond to the presence of God.

But before a spiritual director can make room for the directee, the director first needs to make room within him/herself.

It's similar to hosting someone in my home.

When I'm expecting guests, I first take the time to clean and tidy my home. Not because everything needs to be perfect, but because I want to have the space to welcome them.

I don't want to be distracted by the mess and clutter than I can't enjoy the company of my guests. Likewise, I want my guests to feel comfortable and welcome. A messy home is not conducive for that.

Our inner world is the same. If my inner world is busy, messy, and cluttered, how can I make room for someone else?

In this context, tending to myself and my wellbeing isn't selfish.

It's wisdom.

Jesus said: love your neighbour as yourself. Turns out, you can't love your neighbour without loving yourself.

Not in an unhealthy me-first kind of way. But recognizing that I am also someone God has entrusted me with.