This Halloween evening our church had a wonderful Trunk-or-Treat with people hosting cars spread out along our Lisa’s Faith and Fitness Trail decorated full of treats, games and snacks as a safe place to trick or treat during the pandemic. The guests ranged from the scariest of monsters to the cutest of princesses, young and old and everywhere in between. None of us were scared. Well maybe for a moment--There were a few pretty scary ghouls. But then we laughed and welcomed them with open arms. It was a night of wonderful warmth and cheer. The truth was in the end not only were the strangers we welcomed blessed, we also were blessed in return.
I was reminded of Abraham and Sarah who welcomed three strangers into their home and then after sharing a meal with them received the blessing of a confirmation of God’s promise of a son and a people from whom all nations would be blessed.
Where might we open our doors anew to a stranger or just someone different than ourselves and feel God’s blessing as individuals and a family of faith? For in so doing we might not only bless a stranger that may well become a friend, we may also discover a hidden blessing of God in the starry night.
(verse of the week)
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
(prayer of the week)
Lord, we are reminded in John’s Gospel that you came into this world which you created and still were often regarded as a stranger, yet those who did welcome you felt touched and transformed by the Light of the World. Help me to be open to the strangers along life’s way that I may share your love and discover new friends and new blessings along life’s way. Amen.
Blessings in Christ—Pastor TJ
(quote of the week)
There are no strangers here; Only friends you haven't yet met--William Butler Yeats