Gen 21:1-21

This chapter defines the birth of the nation of Israel. A baby is born to Sarah and grows into boy. He is the promise that God had intended for Abraham. Having her promise from God is not enough for Sarah. The abject cruelity/jealousy that rages with Sarah forces Hagar and Ishmael away into the desert where God comes and gives meaning to them both. He does make a way for them both and defines a nation in a different way. I appreciate what the commentary has to say about this: Sarah did not want trouble between Ishmael and Isaac. She realised that these troubles might become more serious. Isaac would become the head (leader) of the family when Abraham died. Sarah did not want Ishmael to oppose Isaac’s right to lead the family. Paul discusses this situation in Galatians 4:30. He explains that Isaac was born because of God’s promise. So, Isaac was born by the power of the Holy Spirit. But Ishmael was born in the natural way. Christians too should live by the power of the Holy Spirit. But other people live in an ordinary way. So, Christians should not be surprised if other people oppose them. And Christians should not copy the behaviour of people who are not Christians.

Similar to Sarah earlier in life, Hagar also had encountered the living God and was assured of their place in history but she too had her doubts and cried out for help. Their turn was much different as they became 12 nations that were of the desert ilk. Still a remarkable chapter, all said.

Can't wait to get home and see the family albeit in a frenetic way this weekend - 2 weddings on Sat. Still ...

Praise for today: My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart. Ps 7: 10