OCTOBER 20, Genesis 18:1-8

When you go to church this Sunday, look at the faces of strangers or newcomers in church. Do they look lonely to you? When your parents sit down with some newcomers and chat with them after worship service, do you see that perhaps these newcomers are happy someone bothered to talk to them? Does your family regularly invite guests or friends over, perhaps for Bible study and fellowship? Is your family hospitable? The Bible tells us that Abraham was – he ‘entertained’ angels.

One afternoon, the sun was burning and the weather was hot, Abraham sat at the entrance of his tent. He saw 3 unfamiliar faces – strangers coming. He did not know but they were not mere men. There were 2 angels and the third one was God Himself, appearing in the form of a man. You will also notice Abram is now called Abraham. God gave Abram this new name as the meaning of this new name reflects his new role – the father of many nations.

Abraham was kind and hospitable. He knew that the environment he lived in was a hostile one. Where he lived was a harsh land where roads are dusty, travel is dangerous, towns are far apart. And he knew that these 3 travellers should be tired and probably hungry and thirsty. So what did he do? He, a wealthy man at an advanced age, ran to greet and invite them to his place. Not only that – he arranged for a nice full meal as verse 8 tells us. What a lot of food! To slaughter a calf in those days was a big thing as a calf was precious. We can see that Abraham was very generous towards his guests.

Did Abraham eat? Interestingly, the bible tells us he did not; he stood by to make sure his guests are well served. He served with joy, love and kindness.

What may we learn today? Kindness and generosity. This is what we must learn from Abraham. In your own ways, be kind to newcomers in class. Be generous with people. Share food and toys willingly and happily. If we have Christ in our lives, we should be able to show kindness and generosity to others around us!

Thought: May I be kind and generous!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I learn to be kind to all, and to share things with others. It is sometimes difficult for I can go back to my selfish nature, but please help me overcome it. And if there are new students – may I welcome them and get to know them better. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.