Scripture Daily

Context No. 3820 of 4322 · Genesis

Context · Reflection

Genesis 18:6-10: in context

6Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah, and said, “Quickly prepare three seahs of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes.” 7Abraham ran to the herd, and fetched a tender and good calf, and gave it to the servant. He hurried to dress it. 8He took butter, milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set it before them. He stood by them under the tree, and they ate. 9They asked him, “Where is Sarah, your wife?” He said, “There, in the tent.” 10He said, “I will certainly return to you at about this time next year; and behold, Sarah your wife will have a son.” Sarah heard in the tent door, which was behind him.

Three visitors arrive at Abraham's tent in the heat of the day, and he throws himself into welcoming them. He hurries, he runs, he tells Sarah to be quick; he prepares a generous meal, a whole calf, bread, curds and milk, and stands by to serve them under the tree while they eat. His hospitality is eager, lavish, and personal.

And it is in the course of this welcome that the great promise comes: I will surely return to you, and Sarah your wife shall have a son. Abraham did not know, at first, who his guests were, yet he welcomed them with generous care, and in welcoming them he was welcoming the Lord and the messengers of his promise. There is something worth learning in his open-handed hospitality. Scripture would later say that by showing hospitality to strangers, some have entertained angels without knowing it. When we welcome others generously, we may be serving God himself, and blessing may come through the very ones we take the trouble to receive. Abraham's readiness to welcome became the setting for God's promise.

Am I ready to welcome others with the generous, eager hospitality of Abraham, open to the truth that in serving strangers I may be serving God and welcoming his blessing?

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