Saturday, March 29, 2014

Called to wander: a meditation on God's call to Abraham

“The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people, and your father’s household to a land I will show you.

‘I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great (change your name), and you will be a blessing.’” Genesis 12:1-2

Something happened in Ur. Haran was killed. His wife left the family, abandoned her son, Lot, to his grandfather's care. Terah gathered his remaining clan and left. Perhaps fled. With nothing.

Got as far as Harran. Stopped there. A place to rebuild, to acquire new wealth, to add to their small community.

God showed up there, too. With an invitation. Abram’s dad had begun a journey, and now Abram is invited onward to an unknown land of promise.

Who is this God? How did they know Him? Know His voice? He promised good things: to keep them safe, multiply their lives, to give power and repute and to use them to bless the world. The world?

They trusted this strange word. Family councils, preparation and provision, goodbyes.

A strange way, a hidden way to greatness. And what is greatness, anyway?

Harran a good way-point, but never home. Hearts remained restless, sense of belonging held loosely. Certain that there remained a journey, and a true home.


My heart remains restless, alien and stranger, until I reside in you.

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