Julie
I remember the first time I had heard the story of Genesis 22, I was rather young and I believe it was one of the stories that they talked about in Bible school. I remember being appalled by the story because I couldn't understand why a loving God would ask someone to sacrifice their own child in that way. For some reason when I look back I would have sworn that the story I heard said that he actually did sacrifice his son. Obviously, that is not correct and I will say that when I really read the verse the first I was relieved to see and understand exactly what God was asking him to do. While a strange test, it was a test of faith and fear in God and trusting that what he is asking him to do is necessary. They had to take great strength and courage to agree to kill your own child and the request of God. I can say that not everyone would be that trusting in God.
Each day the Psalms seem more and more relevant to our current situation in the world. There is a strong contingent that is trying to silence those that talk about their faith and talk about the disbelief in God. I work with someone that gets offended by the use of words like, blessed and faith. When someone is give a thank you for something and they say "I am so blessed" her head completely explodes and she starts asking why everyone has to say that. For some reason in her mind she sees that as they are trying to push religion on her and I am not sure how she has come to that conclusion. It is very sad...
Michelle
That is a huge test of faith. I know few people that have faith that big. There is a verse that stands out though, verse 8 Abraham says "God himself will provide the lamb...". This is pretty powerful in itself. While he is being asked to sacrifice, he still knows that God will provide. That is true faith. It seems even then he knows that all will work out for the best. I can't say I have that kind of faith yet. But I am working on it. I do try and remember to pray as much as possible, but honestly sometimes that is not my first thought. I will continue trying to do better. I am not sure the significance of chapter 23. I realize they are letting us know of Sarah's death but the rest where it talks of Abraham negotiating for a place to bury her. I am confused as to why this is important.
The psalm does continue like the previous that seem relatable to current times. This one appears to be voicing frustration towards the people of the time and the evil that seems to be rampant. Again at the end he is stating the Lord restores his people so the faith is still there even thru the turmoil.
It is sad that someone feels so negative toward such innocent words that they have to react in that way. Pray for that person. They must be struggling with something or at odds with their own beliefs. I know that is difficult and I struggle to pray for those that cause me irritation or grief. But there is really nothing more we can do at this point, but let God take it.
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