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This year marks a milestone as Canada hosts this grand event for the first time, symbolizing a celebration that should be open to all, welcoming visitors from nations far and wide. With 48 countries represented, the World Cup promises to be an extraordinary spectacle watched by billions worldwide. Yet, it’s disheartening to see this year’s event clouded by a lack of hospitality and, unfortunately, greed.
The Significance of Hospitality
The notion of hospitality is timeless and profoundly significant, drawing parallels to a pivotal story from the Old Testament which we find in the letter of Paul to the Hebrews. One poignant verse admonishes us: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that, some have entertained angels without knowing it.” This struck a chord with me, linked to the iconic narrative of Abraham welcoming three strangers to his tent. In this tale, Abraham offers warmth and refreshment, while Sarah prepares a feast for them. To their surprise, these strangers reveal themselves as divine messengers prophesying that Sarah would bear a son, Isaac, and through him, many nations would be blessed.
Sarah’s initial disbelief at the news of bearing a child in her old age brings a relatable touch of humanity to the story, with her laughter symbolizing incredulity yet, in the end, God’s promise is fulfilled in an unexpected way. This instance underscores how hospitality is not just a mere act of kindness but a foundation stone for the Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
A Contrast to Modern Times
Hospitality, as illustrated in our sacred texts, stands in stark contrast to what we witness in contemporary society. After years of welcoming immigrants and refugees with open arms, we’re now experiencing a disturbing rise in violence and discrimination against those perceived as strangers. This hostility isn’t limited to one region; we’ve seen it in Gaza, the West Bank, Europe, and regrettably, within my own country, the United States.
In particular, the recent policies that deny entrance and basic rights to individuals based on race or ethnicity are highly troubling. I am deeply disturbed by the actions of agencies like ICE, who, without warrants or due process, are tearing families apart, placing people in appalling conditions. Furthermore, the deportation efforts of the Trump administration run counter to the teachings found in biblical scriptures. These actions diminish our compassion and unity, values that should be at the heart of our communities.
Hospitality as a Counter-Cultural Act
Challenging the status quo and the divisive figures of our world—from politicians in the US, China, and Russia, to the oligarchs such as Elon Musk—may seem like a daunting task. Yet, as a person of faith, I draw strength from Jesus’ teachings of peace and justice. In today’s gospel reading, Jesus empowers His disciples to spread the good news, to heal, teach, and exorcise unclean spirits, all without any provisions. They are sent into the world reliant on the hospitality of strangers, a risky endeavor that calls for wisdom and innocence.
This message of hospitality and understanding is radical, provoking opposition and resistance, especially from conventional religious establishments. Yet, it is this same spirit that helps build bridges across cultures and bring communities together.
Embracing Our Common Humanity
As we witness the World Cup, let us not just focus on the triumphs on the field, but also celebrate our collective humanity. I invite you to join me in offering gratitude for the warmth and hospitality we extend within our homes, communities, and faith groups. Together, let us honor God for the blessings entrusted to us and continue to cultivate spaces where strangers are welcomed warmly—not as unknowns, but as friends yet to be made.