JUNE 14, 2020
Genesis 18:1-5
One of the earliest promises God make to Sarah and Abraham is that they would have a family that would multiply greatly. As the years passed, they aged and came to the resolution that promise would not be fulfilled. It seemed very improbable and nearly impossible. God came to visit Abraham and Sarah. They did not recognize God. This time God told them that within a year, Sarah would have a son. Sarah overheard the discussion and because she was beyond normal childbearing years and too old to birth and raise a child, she laughed at the promise. When God asked why Sarah laughed, she lied and said that she did not, but God called her out and said, “Yes, you did laugh.”
Promise making and keeping is an essential part of the fabric of any society. How do you see promise making and keeping in the relationship that God has with humans?
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
In the first two verses of Psalm 116 the psalmist affirms that he loves God because God has been attentive to cries. He promises to hold onto that relationship all his life.
In vs. 12, the psalmist asks an important question: How can I repay the Lod for all his goodness to me? His answer is to lift up the cup of salvation and call on the Lord. To fulfill his vows to the Lord in the presence of his people. The cup of salvation is thought to be connected to the thank offering where one proclaims the goodness of the Lord and gives a witness about how God has been good to them, similar to vss 1 & 2.
Matthew 9:35-10:8
While Jesus was traveling about as an itinerate preacher he saw many things in the lives of people that moved him in compassion. He told them good news and he healed them. He said they seem to be sheep without a shepherd, who were harassed and helpless. Jesus sought to make his disciples more compassionate for others by showing them the plight of the people. In Matthew 10:7 he tells them what to do, reminding that they have been blessed with free gifts, so they are able to give to others.
Romans 5:1-8
Paul names justification or being made right with God through faith in Jesus Christ, which means we have come to Christ to acknowledge our sins, ask for and accept forgiveness and find peace. In our spirit journeys we rejoice in the hope we have in Jesus Christ, which gives us confidence and courage. That does not mean we do not have sufferings or trouble, but that God is with us all the journey. Each challenge molds us and equips us for greater service to God. VSS 5 reminds us that it is God who pours his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. John Wesley would call this regeneration or new birth and sanctification where God works on us to bring us closer to him.
Vs. 8 reminds us that the good work of Jesus Christ on our behalf with forgiveness of sins came before we ever knew that we needed his help. You will recall hearing those words of pardon often in the communion ritual.
Prayer: Lord, like Abraham and Sarah, we are dependent on your faithfulness in promise making and keeping. Our short sightedness often keeps us from recognizing your presence and trusting your Word. Make us wise in learning to trust you in all times. If it is your will, use us daily as witnesses to others who struggle to trust and believe as well.