A Spiritual Re-Set
/Genesis 17 takes place thirteen years after Genesis 16. Clearly we’re only being given the highlights of Abram and Sarai’s life here. Why does this time-frame matter? Because they are still childless except for Hagar’s son, Ishmael. And God comes and talks again to Abram, reaffirming the covenant but this time adding the caveat that all the men and boys in the household need to be circumcised.
As I’ve been looking at this story, and the name change by God from Abram to Abraham, and Sarai to Sarah, I’ve been wondering about the repetition from previous stories. I’ve wondered about the theory of multiple sources for the Pentateuch. I’ve reflected on experts that say that adding the ‘ah’ to both their names is actually adding not just breath, or Spirit, but also part of God’s name, Yahweh. So in effect, every time they call to each other, God is part of that, by name and Spirit.
The more I thought about this, the more I realized that this story is different, not just for instating circumcision as part of Jewish culture, but that it’s a re-set. Clearly something is off - no baby for Sarai and a long wait since the last major conversation with God and Abram. There was likely some tension and impatience. Perhaps nerves were once again getting frayed with a teenager in the tent. And God comes and quite literally makes some breathing room. God reassures that they haven’t been forgotten, and the plan is still in place.
It all made me wonder about where I’m at with God. I can write sermons and plan worship liturgy and check in on people in the congregation. But where is my heart at? Am I feeling far from God’s plan or direction? Have I let some things creep in, like resentment, impatience or feeling sorry for myself, because things aren’t happening when I had hoped?
Abram falls on his face in this story and is told he needs to be blameless. How blameless am I? Even though I know I’m covered by grace because of Christ, am I disciplined in noticing when I’m getting off track and sloppy with my devotion? Am I going to God and making sure I’m seeking rest and remembering that God has it all under control?
At this point, well into fall and anticipating the busy Advent season, I’m guessing I’m not alone in needing a re-set, a timeout to take stock of my relationship with God in the midst of all the other pressures and life realities. I’m guessing I’m not the only one needing the reminder that with every single breath I take the Spirit is with me and God’s presence fills me. That is some wonderful reassurance when the path seems unknown.
I pray that we all can grab even a few minutes to sit, and rest, and re-set, tuning in to the state of our hearts. I pray that we can breathe deeply, taking in the Spirit and releasing wharever is impeding us from resting in God’s presence, promises to us and care. May we return to whatever we have to face reminded of who and Whose we are.