Genesis 12:1-9
“What will God do next?” I asked. Humanity is now spread out and in a state of not-hearing – not hearing either God or one another. In the midst of this God calls one family, and one man in particular. This is the new way. Yes, God has addressed individuals before, but not with the purpose of forming a whole nation through whom he will work, with the rest of humanity in mind. It may well be we get to see some of the intended dynamic of this working through the particular toward the larger scene in these few verses.
First we should acknowledge with appreciation the nature of Abram’s response. It is pointed out that for ancient people to leave home and break ties with ancestors was unthinkable. But the response here is a new listening and doing in relationship to the Lord.
And then amongst the Canaanites Abram sets up altars to his God. There is no sign of preaching here, just openly acknowledging the one who had called him and brought him this far. The Christian community will be called in time to do something more in the midst of their surrounding culture, but what happens here may be viewed as the foundation without which further witness will be fruitless: That is to let your life be a matter of worship, i.e. listen and respond to God and acknowledge him as the author of your journey.
Prayer:
Should the world around me get to fit too comfortably, Lord, it is surely a sign I am not listening and following you and the journey you call me to. Make me faithful to the Way, who is the Christ. Amen.
Monday, October 30, 2006
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