Reflections

Gen Ch 18 (MSG)

 17-19 Then God said, "Shall I keep back from Abraham what I'm about to do? Abraham is going to become a large and strong nation; all the nations of the world are going to find themselves blessed through him. Yes, I've settled on him as the one to train his children and future family to observe God's way of life, live kindly and generously and fairly, so that God can complete in Abraham what he promised him."

God's interaction with his creation becomes a very interwoven story. Hard to grasp at times, this story becomes a very good paradox. God gives blessing to the people of Abraham's line: a people that not only he will come out from, but also a people that will eventually bring forth judgment. This is a story of sons destroying their father--except these sons unknowingly seek to destroy their heavenly father. (see Mark 13:12)

Some times in life, we do not get what we want. God certainly does not get perfect obedience from his creation. We certainly share in this discouragement as well. No person blessed with the elusive free or easy ride. A great example to missed expectations is the relationship between Israel and God! Israel establishes law, ritual, and a monolithic (grand) view of their future Savior. What they get is a Messiah that lovingly fulfills their laws in humble submission.  Submission is completely contrary to what they expect. Their sight focuses in the opposite direction. They look for a mighty warrior: a person that will uphold their traditions, customs, and rituals. Not a rebel. Jesus turns everything upside-down. The suggestion that Jesus is the Messiah disgusts them (see Mark 14:60-65).

But Jesus doesn't let their disgust influence his views. Jesus stays on his path. This image is summed by a command Paul gives to the Romans,

(Roman 12:17-21)(HCSB)

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Try to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes. 18 If possible, on your part, live at peace with everyone. 19 Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for His wrath. For it is written: Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay, says the Lord. 20 But If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head. 21 Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good. "