At the end of today's first reading Abram is at Mamre. And whenever I think of Mamre I think of Rublev's icon of the Holy Trinity which is also referred to as "The Hospitality of Abraham," even though we know Sarai had a lot to do with it!
So when Abram is at his most God-like, hospitality is in abundance. That's what strikes me about Abram's conversation with Lot. Clearly there is contention. Someone has to start by stating this obvious fact. Abram is so hospitable, initiating the needed conversation with grace as he invites Lot to choose his land first. Abram knows that there is enough to go around. Lot is not so convinced. Abram's vision of the world leads naturally to generosity and hospitality, two sides of the same coin. Lot, not so.
Under the shade of the oak at Mamre Abram and Sarai open their arms in hospitality to the strangers who are always the Lord. Give me a hospitable and generous spirit O Lord, that my life will grow in welcoming both neighbor and stranger.
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