- Scripture: Genesis 18:1–18:15
- The Anchor: “Is anything too hard for the Lord? I will return to you at the appointed time next year, and Sarah will have a son.” – Genesis 18:14
God appeared to Abraham and Sarah in human form—most likely a Christophany, which is Jesus, the Son, in a pre-incarnate form. God and two angels came to Abraham’s tent, and Abraham eagerly and urgently went to offer them hospitality. He immediately offers them service, choosing the absolute best calf from his herd instead of using the bad livestock, and asks Sarah to prepare fresh bread for these guests. During the meal, God assures Abraham that Sarah will bear him a son by this time next year. Sarah was eavesdropping on the conversation from inside the tent, and she laughed to herself when she heard this. God knew she laughed and confronted her about it, being completely clear about the certainty of the promise and correcting her for her doubt.
God constantly reminds us of His promises. As humans, we are very forgetful beings, and we often lose sight of what God has said. But even though we forget, God is always here to remind us and reassure us of the promises He has given us.
Abraham also teaches us a great lesson about hospitality. While Abraham was being extra urgent because he recognized it was the Lord, we should always be diligent workers when guests come over to our houses. Our family occasionally has guests over, and I am very lucky to have parents who have amazing hospitality and tend to every need of our guests. People don’t see the behind-the-scenes work that gets put into getting a house ready, but I am thankful for being able to see my parents clean, cook, and prepare. I want to grow up to be someone with that same kind of hospitality.
Reflection
- Abraham gave God the absolute best of his herd rather than the leftovers, and Sarah worked hard to prepare the meal. When you are serving others—whether it’s helping your family cook, welcoming guests, or serving at church—do you give your best effort or do you just do the bare minimum?
- Sarah laughed in secret, thinking her internal doubt was hidden, but God saw and addressed it directly. What is an area of your life right now where you are quietly doubting God’s promises on the inside, even if you look perfectly faithful on the outside?
Prayer
Lord, thank You that even when I am forgetful and let go of Your promises, You are faithful to remind and reassure me. Give me an eager heart for hospitality like Abraham, and help me to serve others diligently. Thank You for the example of my parents and the hidden work they do to love people well. Amen.