Don't Leave the Same Way

“What’s the point of participating in the Eucharist if you’re no better at the end of it?” ~ Metropolitan Archbishop Lawrence Huculak

The Stewardship Conference had a number of interesting speakers today. I enjoyed the Metropolitan’s presentation on the Hospitality of Abraham and Sarah as illustrated in several icons that he had brought along for display. The session was an icon art lesson, a Scripture study and a personal challenge all rolled into one. We reflected on the passage of Genesis 18 where Abraham is resting in the shade of the oak tree when three strangers happen upon him. He springs into action, and offers them three things: water to bathe their feet, rest in the shade under the tree, and food prepared from scratch. According to Huculak, he uses the 3 Ts of Stewardship: time, talent, and treasure.

Hospitality is about giving something of ourselves. Abraham relinquishes his time to provide comfort to these strangers. The treasure is the water, a scarce commodity in the Middle East, even today. He offers his shade and his food. We are hospitable because God has given us much and it is to be shared.

Huculak’s admonishment about attending Eucharist without being changed is a challenge to connect during the common union—the communion—and establish unity among those gathered. There is the challenge to live out our lives together and we should consider how hospitable we are when we attend the Eucharist.

For those who come to the Table, how are you changed when you leave church and re-enter daily life?

Peace,

Suzanne