The Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer, a fascinating ancient Jewish text that retells and expands upon biblical narratives, offers a compelling example through the story of Lot.
We all know Lot. Abraham's nephew, the guy who eventually settles in the ill-fated city of Sodom. But before Sodom, there was Abraham. The Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer (chapter 25) points out that Lot "walked with our father Abraham, and learned of his good deeds and ways." But what exactly were those good deeds?
Apparently, Abraham had built a house specifically for hospitality, right opposite Haran. He welcomed everyone who came and went, offering them food and drink. But it wasn't just about physical sustenance. Abraham used these encounters as opportunities to share his belief, urging his guests to proclaim: "The God of Abraham is the only one in the universe." Imagine the impact of that kind of constant exposure to generosity and faith!
So, Lot, having witnessed all this, carries a piece of that spirit with him, even to Sodom. Now, Sodom, as we know, wasn't exactly a haven of kindness. In fact, it was quite the opposite. The text tells us that the people of Sodom actually made a proclamation: anyone caught helping the poor with even a loaf of bread would be burned alive! Talk about a hostile environment.
Lot, understandably, was afraid. He couldn't openly emulate his uncle's generosity. But the seed of Abraham's teachings had been planted. So, what did he do? He found a way, operating under the cover of darkness. "He did it by night," the text says, explaining why "Lot sat in the gate of Sodom" (Genesis 19:1). He was watching, waiting for opportunities to help in secret, too fearful to act during the day.
Then the two angels arrive, disguised as wayfarers. Lot recognizes them walking in the street and immediately rushes to offer them shelter. "Come and lodge ye overnight in my house, eat and drink, and ye shall go your way in peace." But the angels initially refuse! Lot persists, "and he urged them greatly" (Genesis 19:8), practically dragging them inside.
This small act of kindness, born from the lessons learned from Abraham, becomes pivotal. It sets in motion the events that lead to Lot's family being saved from the destruction of Sodom. It demonstrates that even in the darkest of places, a spark of goodness, nurtured by the right influence, can make all the difference.
Isn't it fascinating how the Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer uses Lot's story to highlight the power of influence and the enduring impact of even seemingly small acts of kindness? It makes you wonder: what kind of influence are we having on those around us? And what seeds of goodness, planted long ago, might be waiting to blossom in unexpected ways?