God Provides

This is one of the foundational stories in Israel’s history and faith. Abraham and Sarah were promised that they would have descendants more numerous than the stars. But they were old, well past child-rearing age. They connive to have a child through much younger Haggar. But that doesn’t satisfy anyone, much less God. No, God said, Abraham and Sarah, you will have a child. They laughed. Ha-ha.

But, as we know, and Abraham and Sarah soon discovered, nothing is impossible with God. Sarah gives birth to Isaac and the nation began.

But, as we know, and Abraham and Sarah soon discovered, nothing with God is as straightforward as it seems. God commands Abraham to take Isaac, the one through whom the dynasty would be built, and sacrifice him. Unbelievably, Abraham up and packs wood, fire and Isaac, and off they go.

But, as we know, and Abraham was about to learn, God always has a few cards yet to play. Just as Abraham was about to plunge the knife into Isaac, God calls, “Stop! Now I know you have faith.” Then God provides a lamb for the sacrifice.

I am pretty sure my faith isn’t as strong as Abraham’s. I hope yours is. But I do know this: God provided the Lamb of God. Hallelujah!

Lamb of God, take away our sin and make us whole. Amen. — DAB