In the book of Hebrews are to be found these words: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unaware.” Of course, as you know, the writer is referring to a story told in the book of Genesis of Abraham and the three strangers to whom he showed hospitality.
But today I would like for you to hear a more up-to-date story. Like so many worthwhile writings, it is by an unknown author and is highly reminiscent of the words in a poem by America’s Hoosier poet, James Whitcomb Riley: “I’d rather see a sermon than to hear one any day.” Sit back and listen now as the story is told:
“His name was Bill. He had wild hair, wore a T-shirt with holes, jeans and no shoes. This was his wardrobe for all four years of college. He was brilliant, profound and very, very bright. It was during his sophomore year that he became a Christian.
“Across the street from the campus there stood a beautiful church, Gothic in design. Its great doors proclaimed a warm welcome, and its stately spire, a symbol of the wealth and prestige, pointed everyone heavenward.
“One Sunday Bill decided to fulfi ll a long standing desire and go there. He walked into the narthex, no shoes, jeans, T-shirt and wild hair. The bell high in the tower had already tolled eleven and the service had begun.
“The sanctuary was crowded as Bill started down the aisle. No seat was to be found. The congregation, all eyes on this late comer, was beginning to look uncomfortable.
“Bill, getting closer and closer to the pulpit, realized that there was not going to be a seat available. Finally, he just sat down on the carpet in the aisle. As he did so, the minister noticed that a deacon, silver haired, in his eighties, elegantly dressed in a three-piece suit, was slowly making his way down the aisle toward Bill.
“How could anyone expect a man of his age and background to understand some college kid seated on the fl oor in the aisle of the church? The congregation was utterly silent, all eyes focused on the scene being acted out before them.
“The minister waited patiently for the deacon to do what had to be done. Reaching Bill with great diffi culty, the elderly deacon lowered himself and sat down next to Bill on the carpeted aisle so he wouldn’t be alone.
‘There were few dry eyes. Everyone was choked with emotion. When the minister regained control, he said, “The sermon you will hear this morning you will not long remember; but, the sermon you have just seen is one I dare say you will never forget.”
Clyde Nichols is a retired minister, having served First Christian Church in Temple for 27 years as senior minister. He is the author of three books of devotionals and writes a religious column for several Texas newspapers, including The Reporter.
“This is the victory that overcomes the world—our faith.” (I John 5:4)
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