THE little girl in our picture is busy with her tea-set. She does not seem to have any company, but if some of her little friends should come in, she would, I daresay, be very happy to share her pleasures with them.
May we not gather from this cheerful little scene, a lesson which God, in His word, makes plain for us—that is, the exercise of hospitality? He tells us not to be forgetful to entertain strangers; and to be given to hospitality.
Long ago, a dear man of God, who was sitting in his tent door one day, and right in the heat of the day, saw three strangers before him. He did not cast a cold glance upon them and turn away, but got up and hastened toward them, and bowed himself toward the ground, for this was the respectful greeting of that day. Then he begged them to rest in the grateful shade of the tree, while water would be brought them to wash their feet, and he would get them something to eat.
Water to bathe the feet in that warm country where people usually wore sandals, was very refreshing, and guests were thus honored. After the water was furnished this man of God spoke to his wife about the strangers, and together they hastened to prepare a good meal for them.
Afterwards it proved that those visitors were angels; one of whom was the Lord; and blessing came upon those who had so kindly received them and waited upon them.
Can you tell me who these dear people were? I imagine that most of my little readers would quickly answer, It was Abraham and Sarah; and that is quite right. If you will turn to the 18th chapter of Genesis, you can read about it for yourselves.
Can we learn from this to receive strangers freely, and willingly to serve them? For God wants us to use hospitality one to another without grudging. 1 Pet. 4:99Use hospitality one to another without grudging. (1 Peter 4:9).
We may sometimes grow weary in waiting upon one another thus; but let us look to the Lord for strength and press on. All that is done for Him will receive its happy reward. In receiving His own we receive Him. This is a very happy thought, is it not?
ML 12/14/1902