Perfect strangers to Abraham, the three
men suddenly appear at his tent. And Abraham and Sarah provide the strangers with a gracious, fabulous
welcome at a moment’s notice.
Hospitality in Old Testament times was
extended with great generosity and reverence – foot washing, no less – to both
friends and strangers. It was considered a sacred duty that could not be overlooked. What Abraham had, he prepared joyfully for his mysterious
guests. It is only after the three men leave that Abraham begins to realize they
might be more than simple travelers.
And then what happens? The same time next year, Abraham and
Sarah experience the graciousness and generosity of God who visits Sarah, with
new life.
In terms of his hospitality, would Abraham
have acted any differently if he had known the strangers were actually God’s messengers? Probably
not. And unlike Martha in today’s gospel, Abraham does not seem to fret over
the preparations for his guests. This is a startling contrast, considering that
Abraham welcomes strangers and Martha welcomes a dear friend. But despite her fretting, Martha ministers to our Lord and is remembered for her hospitality to Jesus.
Christ lays a banquet before us every week. Do we
give thanks for those who prepare the Eucharistic table for us? Is hospitality
an important ministry in our parish? Do we greet strangers and make everyone welcome at the table, whether or not they are dressed in a way we define as reverent?
And whether we are serving or being served at the eucharistic banquet, do
we listen to our Lord’s words and find nourishment there? Whether we are with friends
or strangers, do we embody the fruits of biblical hospitality: generosity,
graciousness, goodwill, God-likeness?
The author, Ms. Barbara Gawle, leads Bible studies at her parish, Incarnation Church of Wethersfield, CT. She is a CBS graduate and the 2012 recipient of the Biblical School's highest award, The Lawrence Boadt Memorial Medal.
The author, Ms. Barbara Gawle, leads Bible studies at her parish, Incarnation Church of Wethersfield, CT. She is a CBS graduate and the 2012 recipient of the Biblical School's highest award, The Lawrence Boadt Memorial Medal.
