The Lord came to Abram saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield your exceedingly great reward.”  Genesis 15:1”

And thus Abraham, having patiently endured, obtained the promise. Hebrews 6:15

This is the season of Advent, a time of waiting, sometimes patiently, for the wonderful celebration of Christmas. Children might have a great deal of difficulty being patient during this time. Our verses today have Abraham as an example – he really did have to be patient. It was a long time between the promises of land and descendants before he had a child with Sarah. He was about 75 when God promised many descendants, and a land that would be theirs. Then, he was about 100 when Isaac was finally born. That’s 25 years of waiting! Plus he was already at an age when he and Sarah may not have any expectation of having children.

His patience was rewarded – there are many descendants of Abraham and three major world religions that claim him as their first prophet. Judaism, Christianity and Islam are all Abrahamic religions. There is one God for all of us in this world.

There are so many in our world who are in situations right now that require patience to endure. Those experiencing homelessness, or food insecurity. There are those whose towns and homes have been devastated by hurricanes, earthquakes and fires. Lots of God’s children who are in need of help for their physical needs as well as hope for their future. A phrase associated with Abraham is “blessed to be a blessing.” As he patiently waited and followed God’s plan, he was blessed as we are. We in turn can be a blessing to others.

Faithful God you always keep your promises. You are our strength and our shield even as our journey can be full of joy and pain. Forgive us our fears and doubts.  Give us patience to endure times of waiting and to share God’s promises with others. Thank you for your continual great love and grace. Amen.

Chris Gabel

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party