Finding God in the Unexpected

Rev. Joel Rodríguez  September 10th 2025

Devotional #2

"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it."

Hebrews 13:2

Reflection:

Two days after leaving the United States, we arrived in Tegucigalpa. The heat and noise of the city reminded me of my childhood, but everything felt unfamiliar. I felt vulnerable and lost. As a husband and father, I carried a deep sense of responsibility. While many say that family gives us strength, we rarely speak about how heavy that responsibility can feel, especially when your loved ones depend on you so much.

Some things in Tegucigalpa seemed familiar, but in many ways, it felt like a foreign land. What brought me comfort was knowing Aurora and Alessio were there with me. They too were going through this transition, feeling disoriented in their own ways.

In moments like these, you begin to wonder where God is or what the next step will be. And then something happens — someone offers kindness, a door opens, a word of support comes. We were helped by a stranger who didn’t owe us anything. His action reminded me: we are not as alone as we sometimes think. God often shows up through the simple kindness of others.

Sometimes, those who have the least to give are the ones who give the most. And sometimes, God’s greatest lessons come through unexpected people and small acts of grace.

for Reflection:

• Have you ever received unexpected help during a difficult time?

• How can you extend God’s love to someone else, even while facing your own struggles?

• What does this story teach you about encountering God through people and situations you didn’t expect?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for placing people in our path who are willing to help us in times of need. Help me recognize Your love in the unexpected and be an instrument of Your grace to others. Amen.