The Sacred Art of Welcome; Genesis 18:1-15; Sermon by Rev. David Fuquay; August 17, 2025

As we stand on the threshold of a new season, we're called to embrace the sacred art of welcome. The story of Abraham's radical hospitality from Genesis 18 challenges us to see the divine in every stranger. Just as Abraham ran to greet unknown visitors, we're invited to overcome our anxieties and extend extravagant welcome to newcomers in our midst. This isn't just about being polite; it's about opening ourselves to transformation. The author of Hebrews reminds us that by welcoming strangers, we may be entertaining angels unawares. As our community prepares to receive new members, we're challenged to see each person as a potential bearer of God's impossible promises. This practice of hospitality isn't without risk – it may change us in ways we can't predict. But that's precisely where the beauty lies. By truly welcoming others, we open ourselves to encounter God in fresh, life-altering ways. Welcome to Wesley: Where Campus and Community Meet Welcoming All | Growing in Faith | Serving in Love We are located in the heart of the University of Illinois campus and serve the university as well as the larger community. At Wesley, people of all ages, from all over the world, gather to worship, study, and serve together. Website ➤ https://www.wesleyui.org/ Giving ➤ https://www.wesleyui.org/giving Wesley Church Socials: Facebook ➤ / uiwesley Instagram ➤ / wesleychurchuiuc Wesley Student Center Socials: Facebook ➤ / wesleyuiuc Instagram ➤ / wesleyuiuc Etc. Coffeehouse Socials: Facebook ➤ / etccoffeehouse Instagram ➤ / etc.coffeehouse