In our daily scripture meditations, we focus on the lessons Abraham learned that made him a man of God. Today, we explore the passage where God appeared to Abraham in human form. It was an ordinary day for Abraham: he sat in the shade of his tent under the large trees of Mamre, with a view of the Jordan Valley, also known as the Dead Sea Valley, in front of him. It was the day when Abraham and Sarah received the announcement that they would finally have the baby of their dreams, with the good news coming directly from the Lord YHWH Himself. The capitalization of 'LORD' (v. 1) indicates that the Hebrew name of God, YHWH, is represented in the text.
An Unexpected Encounter at the Oaks of Mamre
1The 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. 2Abraham 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. 3He said, “If I have found favor in your eyes, my lord, do not pass your servant by. 4Let a little water be brought, and then you may all wash your feet and rest under this tree. 5Let 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.” 6So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah. “Quick,” he said, “get three seahs of the finest flour and knead it and bake some bread.” 7Then he ran to the herd and selected a choice, tender calf and gave it to a servant, who hurried to prepare it. 8He then brought some curds and milk and the calf that had been prepared, and set these before them. While they ate, he stood near them under a tree (Genesis 18:1-8).
Recognizing the Divine in the Ordinary
As soon as he saw the three men, YHWH, and two angels, Abraham sprang into action and hurried from where he was sitting to meet them. He bowed low to these three strangers. In Middle Eastern culture, visitors to one's home are highly regarded. When the three men came to Abraham, he did not know the reason for their visit. To Abraham, these men were merely strangers. Abraham did not realize that one of them was the LORD until later in the afternoon. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews in the New Testament has something to say about the proper treatment of visitors:
Entertaining Angels Unaware: The Theology of Hospitality
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).
In the text above, the writer to the Hebrews perhaps reflected on the LORD’s visit to Abraham with His two angels. Abraham insisted that they sit down and rest in the shade of the trees while he brought food and water to wash their dusty sandaled feet (v. 5). The visitors were pleased to stay for a while. It is beautiful to think that the LORD of heaven and earth would come to eat and be refreshed by His people. Wouldn't it be wonderful for Jesus to come and dine with us? Of course, these visitors did not need the provisions that Abraham offered them, but they stopped and ate for Abraham's sake. It was Abraham who received what he needed that day. Abraham's service to these strangers was conducted hurriedly (vs. 2 and 6). He was careful not to waste their time.
Serving with a Heart of Haste and Humility
The LORD and His angels waited patiently while Abraham and Sarah served them wholeheartedly. It should gladden our hearts that the Creator of the whole universe came to have lunch with Abraham and Sarah. What about you today? Can you serve those around you as if they were the Lord and His servants? Can you put your heart into it as Abraham did that day? You never know who you may be serving. It may be the Lord visiting you.
How to Apply This Today: 3 Steps to "Abraham-Style" Hospitality
Practice "The Hurry": Abraham didn't hesitate; he hurried to serve. This week, when you see a need—whether it’s a coworker who looks stressed or a neighbor carrying groceries—don't overthink it. Act immediately. Small acts of kindness lose their impact when we procrastinate.
Look Past the "Stranger": Abraham thought he was serving ordinary men. Try to treat everyone you meet today—the barista, the delivery driver, or a difficult relative—as if they were a "hidden" guest of the Lord. Ask yourself: How would I speak to this person if I knew the Lord was standing right there?
Prepare the "Finest Flour": Abraham gave his guests the very best he had (the finest flour and a choice calf). Application doesn't always mean spending money; it means giving your best attention. When someone is talking to you, put your phone away. Give them your "finest" presence. Keith Thomas.
Continue Your Journey…
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