104 First Wednesday of Advent: Abraham
Genesis 17:1-8(NIV)
"I will confirm my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers. I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. The whole land of Canaan, where you are now an alien, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God"
On the first Wednesday of Advent, we remember Abraham and the Covenant
The ornament for today should represent the promised land (a sky with stars).
The story of Abraham and the covenant is found in the book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 12–22. According to the story, God called Abraham (originally named Abram) out of his homeland and promised to make him into a great nation. God also promised to bless Abraham and his descendants and to give them a land to call their own.
Abraham believed God's promises and followed His instructions, even when they seemed impossible. God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac, but ultimately provided a substitute sacrifice and reaffirmed His covenant with Abraham.
From this story, we can learn several lessons. Firstly, it teaches us about the importance of faith. Abraham's faith in God's promises was credited to him as righteousness. It reminds us to trust in God's word and promises, even when they seem impossible or unlikely.
Secondly, the story highlights the faithfulness of God. Despite Abraham's mistakes and shortcomings, God remained committed to His promises and provided for him. It serves as a reminder that God's love and grace are not dependent on our performance or merit.
Additionally, the story emphasizes the significance of obedience. Abraham's faith was demonstrated through his obedience to God's instructions. It reminds us that faith and obedience go hand in hand and that our actions should reflect our belief in God's word.
Furthermore, the story of Abraham and the covenant points forward to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. Through Jesus, all nations are blessed, and we have access to the inheritance promised to Abraham.
Overall, the story of Abraham and the covenant teaches us about faith, God's faithfulness, obedience, and the hope found in Jesus Christ. It encourages us to trust in God's promises and live a life of faith and obedience.
For further reading, check out The Call of Abraham in Genesis 12 and
God’s Covenant with Abraham in Genesis 15.
