Chotard Doll

Dear Friends:

Today in Genesis Abraham and Sarah are visited in their tent by the Oaks of Mamre by “The Lord, seen as three men to whom they hasten to offer hospitality and choice food.”

This mystical visit has been called The Old Testament Trinity, and inspired the magnificent icon by Anton Rublev. In that icon the three men share a meal in harmony and peace.

Richard Rohr comments that at the front of the table at which they eat there is a small square, overlooked by most observers. But some art historians believe the remaining glue on the original icon indicates there was once a small mirror attached at that spot.  As you see yourself in the mirror, you become the fourth guest.

Whether that is so or not, we are indeed invited to the table. As Jesus says today in John 6:27:

Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.

We are freely invited, joyfully welcomed, and greatly blessed. 

Faithfully,

—Chotard