December 5
“After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, ‘Abraham!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ He said, ‘Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.’” Genesis 22:1-2
Since we saw how long Abraham and Sarah longed for a son, and the trouble that came when they tried to fulfill God’s promise on their own, it is rather surprising when we see just a few chapters later that Abraham almost sacrifices this child of promise. We cannot read this story without wondering at the fear and faith that had to be battling within him. Yet, he chose to follow God’s command because he had learned the character of God.
Advent reminds us that God keeps his promises. Abraham was promised an heir through his wife Sarah, despite her age. Though it made her laugh, she was blessed with Isaac. Looking ahead to the promise of another Child, we can know that God will fulfill the prophecy to bring us a messiah through the line of David.
Advent also shows us God’s heart through sacrifice. Abraham took his son to the altar and prepared to offer God the thing that mattered most to him. Similarly, God did not withhold his own son from us centuries later. The perfect Lamb of God was sacrificed for us all.
Finally, Advent calls us to trust God when we don’t have the answers. As Abraham took his beloved son to the altar he told him, “God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering.” He chose to be obedient though he didn’t know what would happen. Provision was made with a ram caught in the thicket and Isaac was saved.
As we walk through this season of Advent, let us remember how God met Abraham on the mountain. He came to the place of surrender and provided what was necessary. We shouldn’t only look for God in times of comfort, but find him in places of sacrifice, obedience, and trust.
Prayer for today:
Heavenly Father, the LORD who provides, thank you for meeting us at the altar. May we offer up to you the things that we have held back or placed ahead of you in our lives. Remind us of your faithfulness on the mountain in Moriah and in the manger in Bethlehem. Thank you for providing the perfect Lamb for our hope, our peace, and our salvation. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
