Have you ever wondered if you've encountered an angel without knowing it? This intriguing question is rooted in the biblical text of Hebrews 13, 2, which encourages us not to forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some people have unknowingly entertained angels. The concept of angels appearing as humans isn't an alien idea in the scripture. In fact, there are several instances where angels, these celestial beings, have taken on the guise of ordinary individuals to interact with humanity, their purpose, to carry out divine assignments, convey critical messages, and even participate in the unfolding of God's grand narrative. One such notable instance can be found in the book of Genesis, chapter 18. Here, three seemingly ordinary men pay a visit to Abraham and Sarah. Yet, as the story unfolds, it's revealed that one of these men is an angel of the Lord, bearing the good news that Sarah, even in her old age, will bear a son. The book of Genesis again, in chapter 32, recounts the tale of Jacob, who wrestles with a man throughout the night.
This man, however, turns out to be more than he seems. Jacob eventually realizes he has been wrestling with God, or an angel, who blesses him and changes his name to Israel. Similarly, in Judges 13, an angel makes an appearance to Manoa's wife, foretelling the birth of Samson. The angel even partakes in a sacrificial offering, behaving just like a human would. These stories, along with numerous scripture references, including Hebrews 1-14, Genesis 19, 1 Psalm 91-11, and Acts 12-15, reveal the active role of angels in the lives of believers. Their work often transcends human understanding, operating in ways we might not always recognize. As we delve into the mysteries of the Bible, we find several instances where angels have taken human form. So next time, when you extend kindness and hospitality to a stranger, remember Hebrews 13-2, you might just be entertaining an angel. Let's journey back to the time of Abraham and Sarah. In the parched land of Mamre, under the shade of the Terribinth trees, an extraordinary event was about to unfold. Abraham, the patriarch, and Sarah, his devoted wife, were living out their twilight years with a longing unfulfilled.
They were childless, a source of great sorrow for them. But unbeknownst to them, a divine plan was about to be set into motion. One day, in the heat of the noon sun, Abraham looked up and saw three men standing nearby. Despite their seemingly ordinary appearance, Abraham felt a profound sense of reverence. He rushed to greet these strangers with the warm hospitality customary of his time. He offered them water to wash their feet and shade to rest. Sarah, too, played her part in this act of kindness, preparing a meal for the guests. As they sat under the tree enjoying the food and the cool shade, one of the men, later revealed to be an angel of the Lord, made a startling proclamation. He declared that Sarah, in her old age, would bear a son. Sarah, overhearing this from the tent, laughed in disbelief. (Watch video below for more)
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