One of the stories buried deep in Genesis is the one where Rebekah offers a drink to a total stranger. Little does she know he is seeking a wife for the son of wealthy Abraham. In great hospitality, she offered and drew water for his camels as well.
Rebekah also doesn’t have a clue that this unnamed servant had just prayed that if she gave him and his camels a drink it would be the sign that she was the one of God’s choosing. She was just offering welcome to an unknown guest.
Her generous hospitality opened the door for God to bless her. She did eventually become Isaac’s wife, the mother of Jacob and Esau, and an ancestor of the most important individual in history, the Lord Jesus Christ. This holy descendant of hers would proclaim thousands of years later, “If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.”
I’m sure Rebekah is eternally grateful that she did not refuse that stranger and that she showed him kindness and welcome. By doing so, she became a participant not only in what God was doing at that moment, but in all moments.
Whenever we share hospitality with others, we too participate in God’s Kingdom and open doors for Him to bless us. We can be a part of what God is doing right this minute as well as throughout the ages. His is a kingdom of love, righteousness, and integrity and we get to be a part of it! We can become God’s subcontractors carrying out His will if we are willing.
Rebekah’s story has played out many times right here in our local community. Six years ago, several area churches worked together to start Family Promise of Shenandoah County as one of God’s franchises to serve homeless children and their families. Since that time, many families have found shelter, food, employment, budgeting help, transportation, friendship, and Jesus, and those who have helped have themselves been blessed.
Thanks to the combined efforts of many individuals, congregations, organizations, and dedicated staff, FPSC has grown and already this year, the ministry has helped over 1100 children in hundreds of families. Unfortunately, we are not able to help everyone, but we do refer to other entities that might meet their needs.
Whenever food gets stuck in our digestive systems, it leads to problems. Whether it’s in our throats, our stomachs, our intestines, or even trapped as fat, severe problems often develop if things don’t keep moving. God has designed us for flow through.
He has done the same with His blessings. While we can enjoy the benefits of what He provides, His grace, mercy, and financial resources work best when we allow them to pass through us to benefit others. Whenever we try to hold onto them, they end up causing blockages that make us spiritually ill. Greed, covetousness, and self-indulgence result in chronic harm that is difficult to heal.
Although Family Promise has survived successfully these first six years, it relies on the continued generosity and support of those who, like Rebekah, are willing to reach out and help others in need. If you’d like to volunteer please contact the Family Center at 540-459-4599 or you can mail a monetary gift of hospitality to FPSC, PO Box 733, Woodstock, VA 22664.
To find out more about this incredible local ministry, go to www.shenandoahfamilypromise.org and peruse all of the information available. As letters come out next month inviting financial participation, we pray for generous Rebekah-like spirits in the heart of all recipients. Thanks to all who have supported FPSC faithfully over the years and we look forward to continued partnership.
May God continue to bless the staff, board, donors, and especially the guests of FPSC both now and always.
Blessings, George