Sermon: followed by time of quiet reflection 3 key words: visitors, hospitality, compassion The scriptures highlight the theme of visitors and hospitality, starting with Abraham and Sarah encountering three visitors in Genesis. People in the Bible are constantly on the move, encountering new situations and meeting strangers, emphasizing the theme of journeys and travel. Change and unexpected circumstances can disrupt and transform our lives, whether by our own choices, actions of others, sickness, suffering, or blessings. God is found amidst our wanderings and encounters, often visiting us in surprising and unrecognized ways, delivering blessings beyond our imagination. Jesus is the ultimate visitor, entering fully into human life, teaching, healing, and showing compassion to those in need, revealing God's new way of being with us. Jesus' presence transcends time and space through his death, resurrection, and Ascension, making his home forever with us. Suffering and need are prevalent in the world, and amidst these realities, the stories of Abraham, Sarah, and Jesus offer hope, compassion, and love. God invites people to join in the work of compassion and salvation, as seen in Abraham and Sarah being part of God's unfolding story and the disciples being commissioned and sent out. The disciples' names and our own names are part of the ongoing story of God's saving and renewing all of creation, with unique callings and opportunities for each individual. As we respond to God's call, we can be answers to prayer, revealing God's heart of compassion, seeking justice, and taking action, even if the laborers may seem few. Welcoming people in need
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