Dear Sisters and Brothers,
This past Sunday we heard the story of the “three men” whom Abraham provided respite for as they traveled towards Sodom and Gomorrah, although their destination would only become known later. In the story, the patriarch invited them to rest from the heat of the day under the tree while he prepared a meal for them. What we probably remember most about the story is their prediction that Sarah, in her old age, would finally give birth to her own child. What we most likely also remember is her laughing at the news.
Three weeks ago, we celebrated Trinity Sunday. In my sermon, I noted that we never find the word “trinity” in the bible. I did suggest that the concept was certainly there, as in Jesus instructing the eleven disciples to “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). In our lesson from Genesis last week, we find the “three men” which have often been considered to represent the Trinity. We were told “The Lord appeared to Abraham,” and then are told only about the men. The Icon (above left), by Andrei Rublev, is his adaptation of an earlier work entitled “The Hospitality of Abraham” from which he removed the figures of Abraham and Sarah. True icons are more than just pictures. They are painstakingly created with prayer central to their being and layer upon layer of paint with the intention that they are not so much looked at, as through to see the real message behind them. We notice three seated figures as if on thrones under a tree as we look at it. Upon looking closer, you may notice that they appear to have wings with halos around their heads. Between them, you will find a single cup or bowl, not the curds, milk, and calf we were told Abraham had prepared for them or the cakes he had Sarah prepare. Many who prayerfully consider this icon see in it several meanings. Firstly, the “men” with wings could be angels, messengers of God, and perhaps even the Lord himself along with Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Perhaps this explains why so many simply know the icon as the” Trinity” and not its original name. A second revelation many see is that single bowl they will share. To many, it represents a chalice. The last significant takeaway many have had is noting the open space at the front of the table. Just as icons are meant to draw the viewer into the work, this opening suggests that we too who are looking at the image are invited to join the table, have a seat, and share the meal with the guests. As we sing in Hymn 305, “Come, risen Lord and deign to be our guest; nay let us be thy guests; the feast is thine; thyself at thine own board make manifest in thine own Sacrament of Bread and Wine.” (Hymnal 1982). The hospitality that Abraham showed was normal for a nomadic people, as it was for Jesus to welcome strangers and, hopefully, we do as well, not only in our homes but in our churches also. The signs outside most of our churches say, “The Episcopal Church Welcomes You.” I pray that as Jesus offers himself to us at his table, so too will we welcome others to join us.
Peace,
Bryant+
