I traveled to Minsk, the capital of Belarus, to speak at a regional conference for pastors. It was one of those rare trips when everything went right. Planes arrived and left on time. No trouble getting through customs. I was treated warmly and graciously.

My hosts on Friday evening were my driver's family, and they extended to me the most generous hospitality. When I was dropped off at their small apartment, his wife and three of their children welcomed me. The oldest, a boy, and the two younger girls entertained me while their mother was finishing a nice but modest dinner that probably cost them a couple of weeks' food budget. Then the eldest daughter, 13-year-old Anastasia, came in from her drawing class. Soon she was showing me her portfolio, and she offered me a drawing. I chose one with two cats, which I knew my grandchildren would enjoy.

After dinner we went into a small room where the boy played his cello for me. Then Anastasia sang a song she had written, and afterward we all sang. For a visitor far from home, missing his loved ones, and keeping a grueling schedule, the warmth of that family was very special. When I think of their love and kindness, I ask God to make me as "given to hospitality" (Romans 12:13) as they were.  —DCE  — David C. Egner