This week's parashah, Vayeira, begins with Abraham preparing a meal for three strangers who appear in the desert. The three strangers are actually angels in disguise, one of whom reveals that in one year, Sarah will give birth to a son. Thinking she is barren and far too old to have a child, Sarah laughs at this.
It is revealed that G-d plans to destroy the city of Sodom. Abraham pleads with G-d not to do this but is unsuccessful. Lot and his family are allowed to leave before the destruction with one contingency: they must not look backward as they flee. Lot's wife doesn't follow these instructions and is famously turned into a pillar of salt.
G-d gives Sarah and Abraham a son, Isaac. G-d tries to test Abraham's devotion by commanding him to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham binds Isaac and prepares to slaughter him, but a voice from heaven stops him and he slaughters a ram instead.
The beginning of this parashah reveals an important lesson, in my opinion. Abraham was generous and hospitable even though he expected no return for it. This kind of selflessness I think is important to try to emulate! We can all work to be a more kind and selfless version of ourselves.
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