Ready to Entertain an Angel?

Genesis 23:10-12 (MSG)
  Ephron was part of the local Hittite community. Then Ephron the Hittite spoke up, answering Abraham with all the Hittites who were part of the town council listening:
  "Oh no, my master! I couldn't do that. The field is yours—a gift. I'll give it and the cave to you. With my people as witnesses, I give it to you. Bury your deceased wife."
  Abraham bowed respectfully before the assembled council

When reading the interchange between Ephron and Abraham, one would think the grieving man was not thinking straight. Ephron offered to freely give him the land, but Abraham insisted on paying a fair price. But this was a custom in that time. Each man knew how this transaction would end. Each man was honoring the other.

Hospitality isn't merely the nice thing to practice. No, there is an entire Hospitality Industry in our world. When was the last time you stayed in a motel? How were you welcomed? What did you find when you entered your room? Did you find any indication that you were not only wanted but expected? Was there a mint on your pillow, or maybe even a complimentary coupon for breakfast?

Part of extending hospitality to another is to show respect. A stranger may seem strange, but that is only because they are not familiar to us - yet. Once we take the time to get to know them we are able to embrace our similarities and appreciate the differences. Sometimes, it is those very differences which make the person endearing.

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2 (NIV) 

Hospitality is defined as the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers. Hospitality is not only making a stranger feel welcome, it begins by noticing them. We all want to be acknowledged. It is important we feel welcome and accepted when entering a new environment.  Everyone was once a stranger until we got to know them - even our best friend.

Genesis 23:10-12