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Stirring
Have you ever misplaced or lost something, and it stirs little worry? You just know that Read More
MARYSOL DIAZ | Read Genesis 24:42-49
Not being in control of events and not being able to predict the future, I have learned to live in trust, which offers the gift of waiting. While many consider not knowing a weakness, those who live in trust discover a richness in not knowing. Our not knowing can lead to an openness, a time of waiting to embrace what God holds in store for God’s beloved.
Abraham’s servant has been praying. He has opened his heart, and God has directed his steps. Now in Rebekah’s home, he rehearses his experience by the well. With God’s leading he has decided that Rebekah is the wife he has come seeking for Isaac. After engaging Rebekah, he bows his head in joyful thanksgiving and praise and worships the Lord. God has listened and answered his plea. He has walked the road trusting, praying, and praising God.
Then in verse 49, he repeats words often spoken in transactions: “Now then, if you will deal loyally and truly with my master, tell me; and if not, tell me, so that I may turn either to the right hand or to the left.” The servant is left to wait for the reply. Will this relationship come to fruition?
We cannot escape waiting. Such is life. We are always waiting. What can we learn from this truth that all would prefer not to have to endure? On the one hand, it encourages us to pay attention. It reminds us that we need to “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). In so doing, we learn to see through the eyes of discernment. Above all, waiting can teach us that God’s love will lead us. A mutual relationship with God will lead us to green pastures and wells of abundant grace that anoint us with God’s unending provision and love.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of trust. Guide us through the unknown as we stand before you, knowing that you are our refuge and our strength. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
The Genesis text tells of Abraham’s quest to find a bride for Isaac from among his own people. In opting for Isaac, Rebekah makes herself the instrument for the preservation of the promise; God’s intentions are sure. A hymn honoring the marriage commitment is a good pairing with Genesis, since the Song of Solomon addresses the sweetness of love. Romans 7 depicts a battle of human life. Here the strong desire to do good and serve God rightly is threatened by the enemy of sin. Jesus’ prayer in Matthew recalls that knowledge of sin’s defeat often comes to those “infants” to whom God has granted revelation.
• Read Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67. How difficult is it for you to trust that God will act for your good, even if you nd yourself waiting?
• Read Song of Solomon 2:8-13. Whose voice have you known as beloved? How did it waken you to creation’s beauty?
• Read Romans 7:15-25a. How might you let God’s understanding love make a change in your actions?
• Read Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30. Jesus offers rest for our souls. How do you tap into that wonderful offer?
Respond by posting a prayer.
I join many of those who will pray for you as you seek to discern what you are called to be at this moment. May God grant you the courage to fulfill that calling. May we all open our eyes and see the misery, open our ears and hear the cries of God’s people, and, like God through the Lord Jesus Christ, be incarnate amongst them.”
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