Hospitality On A Journey

From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough

Hello everyone, ​please know you are being held in prayer by many.  If you have other needs, do let us know.   I think of you all so often, and it is indeed with deep gratitude.   

Genesis 18:1-5  
The Lord appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day.  Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he hurried from the entrance of his tent to meet them and bowed low to the ground.

 He said, “If I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, do not pass your servant by. Let a little water be brought, and then you may all wash your feet and rest under this tree. Let me get you something to eat, so you can be refreshed and then go on your way—now that you have come to your servant.”

“Very well,” they answered, “do as you say.”

Meditation 
I have always loved this well-know scripture of Abraham and Sarah extending hospitality in the desert.  There is, of course, more to these "three men" than is first apparent, for one of them announces to their hosts that they will bear a son. Abraham and Sarah are reluctant to believe this bit of news because of their advanced age (in fact, Sarah, who was a distance away actually laughed out loud), they would indeed give birth to Isaac.  

​It is a thought provoking ancient story that has guided Jews and Christians for centuries.  We are reminded that God continues to work in so many ways, regardless of what we may believe. 
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Today, I ponder the hospitality that Abraham and Sarah extended to these mysterious travellers.  Hospitality in the desert is vital.  The environment can be harsh and unforgiving, and the journeys can be long.  Yet, in many ways, the same is true for us today.  We all have embarked on our life journeys, and sometimes we find ourselves in an emotional desert.  Perhaps we feel parched and hungry and tired. Or maybe we sense this discomfort in others.  Regardless, there is always a call to offer and receive hospitality and friendship.  

This story reminds us that everyone has something vital to offer. Abraham and Sarah offer food, water, some shade.  The travelers share a message from God.  We all have a role to live in this life, and we all have something to give, and something to receive.  Sometimes all we have to offer are prayers and love.  That is more than enough for we can depend on God to give us what we need.  Learning to trust that we will be provided for is part of all our journeys.  Let us always encourage one another for we know we journey together.  Amen.  

Prayer
Holy God, you have called us on this journey, and we know that wherever we are, you are with us.  Help us to treat one another, and ourselves, with love and encouragement. You know sometimes the journey does get difficult.  We thank you for the good traveling companions you have given us.  May we not take you, or them, for granted, but rather offer the hospitality of our hearts.  May we always rest comfortably in the company of one another and in your care.   Amen.     
    
"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2 
    
​Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor, San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ
SpiritCare Ministry to Seniors 
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P.S. Read Sue Ann's Blog www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com