Daily Retreat 06/30/07
2007 Jun 30 Sat/First Martyrs of the Church of Rome
Gn 18:1-15/Lk 1:46-55/Mt 8:5-17
From today’s readings: “The LORD appeared to Abraham by the Terebinth of Mamre, as Abraham sat in the entrance of his tent, while the day was growing hot.... The Lord has remembered His mercy.... Lord, I am not worthy to have You enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed..... ”
Abraham’s Hospitality
Hospitality was one of Abraham’s standout virtues, so it’s no wonder that the New Testament invokes his example (cf. Hebrews 13:2): “Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels.”
In ancient times and even today, hospitality is highly valued in hostile environments, in climates and locales where one’s survival, especially during travels, often depends on whether or not another person can be prevailed upon to provide water, food, clothing, and shelter when needed the most.
But Abraham goes beyond the nomad’s code of reciprocal hospitality - the lavish reception he offers the three strangers is more than most of us would provide for even a best friend! So his example can be a practical inspiration for you and me: in our earthly pilgrimage, since we certainly rely often enough on the generosity of others (particularly God!), it follows that, whenever we have an opportunity to be hospitable to others (whether known or unknown to us), we should follow Abraham’s lead, thereby doing our own part in welcoming angels!
Gn 18:1-15/Lk 1:46-55/Mt 8:5-17
From today’s readings: “The LORD appeared to Abraham by the Terebinth of Mamre, as Abraham sat in the entrance of his tent, while the day was growing hot.... The Lord has remembered His mercy.... Lord, I am not worthy to have You enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed..... ”
Abraham’s Hospitality
Hospitality was one of Abraham’s standout virtues, so it’s no wonder that the New Testament invokes his example (cf. Hebrews 13:2): “Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels.”
In ancient times and even today, hospitality is highly valued in hostile environments, in climates and locales where one’s survival, especially during travels, often depends on whether or not another person can be prevailed upon to provide water, food, clothing, and shelter when needed the most.
But Abraham goes beyond the nomad’s code of reciprocal hospitality - the lavish reception he offers the three strangers is more than most of us would provide for even a best friend! So his example can be a practical inspiration for you and me: in our earthly pilgrimage, since we certainly rely often enough on the generosity of others (particularly God!), it follows that, whenever we have an opportunity to be hospitable to others (whether known or unknown to us), we should follow Abraham’s lead, thereby doing our own part in welcoming angels!
posted by FrPitstick | 6/29/2007
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