Our scripture this morning is Genesis 22:12 (NET).
“Do not harm the boy!” the angel said. “Do not do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God because you did not withhold your son, your only son, from me.”
The largest part of God’s blessing to Abraham was the promise of a family, even though he and Sarah were already old. They become impatient and attempt to make this happen themselves with sad results (Genesis 16). However, God is faithful and gives them a son of their own. Now in Genesis 22 God asks that Abraham give back his only son as an offering. As they go, Isaac notices they have no animal to sacrifice with them. Abraham says “God will provide for himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son,” (Genesis 22:8). At the climactic moment God intervenes, providing a ram in Isaac’s place. Abraham had faith that God’s plan was better than any he could put together. God has sent His only Son as a sacrifice for our sin. We need to trust God as fervently as Abraham, knowing He has only good for us.
Loving Lord, help us to trust You even when we don’t see the way, walking by faith and not sight. Bless us to share the joy we find in You with everyone. Amen.
