“Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!“

Occasionally I will receive a note from someone that goes something like this, “You won’t remember me, but I interviewed with you years ago and you said something that stuck with me”.  And, each time it is something different that I said, and yes in most cases, I don’t remember considering the many years that I spent interviewing people all day long.  I also will occasionally see someone that has progressed and succeeded that I interviewed long ago and be amazed at what they have become (one became a US Secretary of Commerce, another a state Governor and so on). What I am reminded of is we never know who we will meet and who we will make an impression upon and the interview time when we think we are doing one thing (assessing someone for a job) we are doing something else too; making a potential lasting impact that could change the direction of their career.

In Hebrews we are told that we might meet angels along the way of our lives.  Is it possible that within all of those interviews with strangers at the time, who I went above and beyond to be hospitable, courteous, caring and encouraging, that I might have done so with Angels?  Could be!  And even if not, it is our place to treat people like we would want to be treated in an interview.  That means being prepared, on time, focused and committed to giving all of ourselves to them during the time they are giving us.  And, yes, following up and being honest with them post the interview.  We might be getting ready to do an interview or two today with people who are strangers. Can we try to do so as if they might be Angels in disguise?

Reference:  Hebrews 13:2 (New Living Translation)