Sunday, December 22, 2024

Scripture: Hebrews 13:2-3 (NIV) – “Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters.  Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.  Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.”

Message: There are several Biblical accounts of angels delivering messages from God to specific individuals.  The Angel Gabriel revealed to Mary her role in God’s plan to bring salvation to the world through Jesus.  Angels also provide guidance, comfort and protection as well as testing our hearts.

Last fall, on my way home, I noticed a man sheltering under the I-4 overpass.  After passing by several times, I conceded that I could, and should, do something to help him.  With a bag of non-perishable food in my car, I pulled over into the emergency lane one night.  We were separated by a concrete barrier and another lane of traffic, so I waved my arms to get his attention and left the bag on the barrier for him to safely retrieve when he could.

 I made a few more deliveries to him in the following weeks.  On the final time, I walked around the back of my car, as I had done before, towards my open passenger side window to retrieve the bag of food.  Much to my astonishment, and as if by swift flight, the man was standing right in front of me smiling, with his right hand extended.  We shook hands and he told me his name.  Then I said to him, “Sheldon, God knew your name already, and now I do, too.” 

That was our last encounter.  Maybe he found work, or just moved on.  However, I couldn’t help thinking about the Scripture passage and wondered if Sheldon had been on assignment from God.  

Showing hospitality to friends and family is a joyous part of celebrating the birthday of our Savior.  However, the Scripture reminds us to care for those we don’t know.  In doing so, we give glory to God through obediently passing along His love to others in practical ways.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, open our eyes to the needs of those who are “unseen” and “unloved”.  Create in us a heart of compassion leading us to action during Advent and throughout the year.  In Christ’s name we pray.  Amen.

Patti Gich