The reading for Saturday, January 7, 2023 , is Genesis 21 - 23

 Today's reading: Genesis 21 - 23

The birth of Isaac, Hagar & Ishmael sent away, Abraham is tested, Sarah dies

I can understand Sarah being upset at Ishmael mocking Isaac, but sending Ishmael away from his father because of it is appalling to me. 

As I listen to Hagar getting her son, Ishmael, a drink from the well to save him from dying, I am reminded of the woman at that well with Jesus who offers her living water. 

When God tells Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac, God says that Isaac is Abraham's only son. Yet, we know that Ishmael still lives. I find this whole sacrificing Isaac thing creepy. I've heard some people say they think that Isaac got onto the alter willingly. I tend to think that Isaac struggled against getting on the alter. In the end we don't know. 

I also see the sacrifice of Isaac as a foreshadowing of the crucifixion of the Messiah to come. In some ways, Jesus prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane were like a struggle. 

I find the haggling with the Hittites interesting--not how we do things in our culture. 

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