The mysterious account of the mysterious meeting of Abraham with the three strangers has deep significance for our understanding of the way God works in our lives. Our God is not bound to a place and time; our God builds His own sanctuary in our inner selves. This is the mystery of the three men who ate Sarah's generous meal and who announced the unexpected birth of Isaac. Abraham's tent became the dwelling place of God; this is how God's revelation occurs. In Luke's gospel, when Jesus visited Martha and Mary, we learn that it is silent prayer or the patient attitude of listening that lifts up our spirit and melts away our inner restlessness. In the second reading from Colossians, Paul declares that the mystery is Christ among us; the mystery that is still unfolding but can easily remain hidden as in the case of Martha in Luke's account, who though physically in the presence of Jesus, totally missed meeting with Him because she worried too much. Hospitality, where Goid is concerned, is not just about providing a service but about receiving a gift. Abraham's hospitality is immediately exchanged: the promise of another visit and a son for Sarah in a year's time. Luke's text depicts the church which, taken up by much activism, has so much difficulty with listening to God's revealing spirit and to the real feelings and needs of the people. Today's readings illustrate a basic principle in the building up of truly Christian Communities: the preaching of the Word and listening to it. This is that gives birth to true discipleship of Jesus Christ.
