Our Daily Bread: Remembering 9/11Намуна

Neighbors

You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. -Luke 6:36

When US airspace closed after the attacks of September 11, 2001, planes had to land at the nearest airport available. Nearly forty unscheduled aircraft ended up in Gander, Newfoundland. Suddenly this small Canadian community almost doubled in size as thousands of frightened passengers arrived. People opened their homes, and officials converted schools, lodges, churches, and meeting halls into places to stay. The town even turned the local ice hockey rink into a huge refrigerator for guests to keep food chilled. Stranded passengers were overwhelmed with neighborly generosity and kindness.

The people of Gander showed the kind of love described in Hebrews: “Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!” (Hebrews 13:2). This is likely referring to Abraham when he entertained three men who came to tell him that he would soon have a son (see Genesis 18:1–16). Two of the “men” were angels, and one was the Lord Himself. 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. How will you answer that call today?

Dear God, show us Your love today and help us extend that love through things big and little that we can do for others.

Anne Cetas