THE RABBI AND THE OLD TRAVELER

A story is told of a Rabbi who welcomed an old weary traveler in his home as dusk set in. After preparing the bed of his  guest for a night's rest, the Rabbi and the old traveler struck a conversation while partaking a meal. 

He asked how old the traveler, was. The old man revealed he was almost a hundred years old. 

The Rabbi asked the old man what might be his religious beliefs. The old man said he had none because he was an atheist. 

Aghast, the Rabbi said he could not keep the old man in his house, for he could not share his dwelling with an unbeliever. 

The Rabbi asked the old traveler to leave. The old traveler departed as the Rabbi closed the door of his house. 

The Rabbi settled in his chair, read the Scriptures. Then he heard a Voice from heaven, saying, "Son, why did you throw the old man out?"

The Rabbi answered," Because he does not believe in You, and I could not possibly endure his company." 

The Voice replied, "I have endured him for almost a hundred years now."

Convicted, the Rabbi rushed out of his home and went after the old traveler and brought the old man back into his home and showed the unbeliever God's kindness.

"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

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