And said, My Lord, If now I haue found fauour in thy sight, passe not away, I pray thee, frō thy seruant: Genesis 18:3 (KJV)
Genesis 18:3 records Abraham’s response to three visitors who are traditionally understood to be the LORD (Yahweh) together with two angelic messengers. In the verses that precede this encounter Abraham is sitting at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day when he notices three men standing nearby. Recognizing the significance of their appearance, he promptly goes out to greet them, bows down, and invites them into his tent.
The words spoken in this verse reveal several key aspects of Abraham’s character and his relationship with God. First, his hospitality is evident. He immediately offers food, water, and rest, reflecting the high value placed on hospitality in ancient Near Eastern culture. His urgency in asking the visitors “not to pass away” shows his desire to honor and serve them. Second, his humility is shown by addressing one of the visitors as “My Lord,” a term of respect that acknowledges divine authority and demonstrates reverence toward the presence of God.
Abraham also acknowledges that finding favour in the Lord’s sight is a privilege. He understands this meeting as a significant moment of divine visitation, building on the prior promises and guidance he had received from God. This awareness deepens the relational bond between Abraham and the divine.
Finally, his prayerful request—“pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant”—expresses a humble longing to remain in the presence of the divine, to receive further blessings, guidance, or revelation. The passage thus highlights Abraham’s faith and trust as he opens his home and heart to the divine visitors.
Overall, Genesis 18:3 invites believers to reflect on hospitality, humility, and prayerful interaction with God. It encourages recognition of divine encounters and the willingness to extend kindness, reminding us that God’s favour and presence can be experienced through faithful service and generous hospitality.
