When US
airspace was closed after the September 11, 2001, attacks, planes had to land
at the closest airport available. Nearly 40 planes landed in Gander,
Newfoundland. Suddenly this small Canadian community almost doubled in size
when thousands of frightened passengers arrived. People opened their homes, and
officials converted high schools, lodges, churches, and meeting halls into
places to stay. Stranded passengers were overwhelmed with neighborly generosity
and kindness.
The
people of Gander showed the kind of love described in Hebrews 13: “Do not
forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly
entertained angels” (v.2). This is probably referring to Abraham when he
entertained three men who came to tell him that he would soon have a son (Gen. 18:1-16).
Two of the “men” were angels, and one was the Angel of the Lord. Bible
commentator F. F. Bruce says about Abraham, “Among the Jews, Abraham was
regarded as outstanding for his hospitality as [he was] for his other virtues;
a true son of Abraham must be hospitable too.”
God calls
believers to show their love and gratefulness for Him in their good works of
hospitality and compassion.
Christlike
love is seen in good works. (RBC)
