By Nina Warriner, Eastern Great Lakes Mission Center Presidency Team
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.
Robert is a dad, unlike any other I have worked with in my years of teaching special needs students. He is a simple man with limited educational skills, doing his best to raise his son who has significant physical and developmental needs. There are times when I have to take several deep breaths before responding to him if he gets worked up over a seemingly trivial thing. There are other times when I am in absolute awe of the focus with which he responds to his son’s needs or the deep generosity he acts on to provide the class with treats, something I am certain he doesn’t really have the resources to afford. In each of these situations, I recognize and deeply value the involvement, dedication, and love Robert has for his son. But one thing I never expected from Robert was for him to teach me what genuine hospitality is.
One afternoon, outside the grocery store, Robert sat with a man on a bench eating lunch. At first glance one would have assumed these were two friends who had met up. But this story was much more profound.
The man looked as if he had not showered in many days and wore dirty, worn-out clothing. Neatly tucked beside him were a little suitcase and a couple of garbage bags, most likely holding all his possessions. Robert had purchased lunch for both of them and sat with him to eat and talk. In that moment, Robert did more than just feed a stranger. He welcomed him into an experience of authentic relationship, a time of communion. Robert easily could have given the man something to eat, which would have taken care of his immediate physical need. However, Robert’s act was not one of mere charity, but one that extended the hand of dignity and belonging. I suspect that angels were witness to this encounter where the love of the divine radiated with each bite taken and each word exchanged.
Prayer Phrase
“Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
Deepening Roots
A tree with superficial roots will wither during drought, or severe storms may uproot it. A tree whose roots go deep is stable and draws from deep waters. Imagine yourself as a tree by a river or stream. Sense your roots extending deep into the earth in search of God’s Spirit. Reflect or pray about what you hope to find as your spirit searches for deeper identity in God.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.