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“And G-d appeared to him in the plains of Mamre, and he lifted his eyes and saw three men…” (Bereishis 18:1-2)
Avraham Avinu’s tent was open on all four sides, welcoming travelers from every direction. But this week’s portion reminds us that this wasn’t a moment of ease — it was right after his Bris Milah, when he was in pain and recovery. Still, when strangers appeared in the heat of the day, Avraham ran to greet them. The opening words, “And G-d appeared to him,” come before the guests arrived. Avraham’s sensitivity to G-d’s presence let him notice others. When you see the Divine first, you see people differently — as souls deserving urgency, respect, and care.
1️⃣ The tent is open on all sides
Avraham’s home symbolizes a worldview: no locked gates, no one turned away. For chaplains, caregivers, and first responders, this goes beyond hospitality — it’s about operational readiness rooted in empathy. It involves meeting others where they are, physically and emotionally, even when it feels uncomfortable.
2️⃣ Compassion under pressure
Avraham’s hospitality wasn’t just leisurely kindness—it was triage under pressure. He directed Sarah, delegated to others, and managed every detail. Love isn’t merely an emotion; it’s logistics. Compassion becomes sacred when it’s organized, intentional, and swift. That’s the core of the SoulLinks mission—turning empathy into motion.
3️⃣ Faith is not a pause button
Avraham could have told G-d, “Wait — I’m serving guests.” Instead, he recognized that welcoming them was itself Divine service. Faith and action aren’t rivals; they’re partners. To “see G-d and run to people” is the formula for holy work. A Covenant That Compels Compassion
Avraham’s Bris Milah was the covenant that shaped his physical being — transforming every act of kindness into a spiritual act. To explore this further, see our related feature: “A Covenant in the Desert” — a story of courage, holiness, and healing that carries on that same legacy today.
SoulLinks Challenge
Pause three minutes before a shift, remind yourself: “G-d appears,” then look for who needs you.
One act of hospitality, do it quickly and cheerfully, even if small.
Close the loop, follow up with one person you helped this week.