Genesis 18

 

 

Bible Gateway Genesis 18 NIV link: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=1&chapter=18&version=31

 

So much happens in this chapter that it is easy to miss some of the more subtle nuances. Abraham was not a young man, but he was wealthy. Read again how he received his guest. HE did not snap his fingers, and demand that a dinner be prepared. First he RAN to meet them. Abraham is pushing 100, and he runs out to meet his guests. HE goes to Sarah, and gets her to make the bread, no one else, his wife who is well advanced in years, is asked to cook, and she does without thinking about it. Then Abraham goes and gathers curds and milk. Once again without having to be asked Abraham is working for the Lord. HE is not pushing it off on anyone, he is not looking for a way to sit with the Lord and put his servants to work. Abraham, the great man of faith is going to take care of it himself.

 

Next Notice how they ask where Sarah is? She is within earshot, this is something I found interesting. We know that back then a woman would not be allowed to sit and eat with the men, especially with men form outside of her house. However they make sure that Sarah can hear when they speak of her having a child. Although The Lord was speaking to Abraham, he was actually making a promise to Sarah, through Abraham. The Lord even engages in conversation with her though Abraham. Now God has not only promised Abraham, but Sarah as well. Could this be God’ sway of telling Sarah to be patience. Perhaps it was the Lord’s way of telling Sarah, this time it will be a child born by you, not just fathered by Abraham.  Don’t try to force it this time!

 

Of course it has to be pointed out that at the end of the chapter we find Abraham once again more concerned with those around him, than with himself. The Lord revels that he will destroy Sodom. Abraham pleads with the Lord to spare the righteous. One thing Abraham can never be accused of is indifference. This is another great quality that we all could use more of. Abraham was always concerned with those around him. HE always put himself second, and the Lord continued to bless Abraham, past the point of overflow. Once again showing serving is greater than being served.

 

Peace,

Brian