Today's reading

…I swear by myself declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and sand on the seashore... –Genesis 22 16-17 NIV

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131

The Sacrifice of Two Sons

…I swear by myself declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and sand on the seashore... –Genesis 22 16-17 NIV

In Genesis 22, we read the story of Abraham’s obedience when he was told by God to sacrifice his son Isaac. But, it is not merely a story about obedience. This passage foreshadows the greatest sacrifice of all time. Have you ever noticed the similarities between Isaac and Jesus?God told Abraham to sacrifice his only son, whom he loved, on one of the mountains in Moriah. The Lord allowed His only begotten son to be sacrificed on a hill called Golgotha. Abraham obeyed God completely, even though his heart was troubled. Jesus obeyed God completely, even though He sweat great drops of blood as He asked if there was any other way. Isaac was also obedient to his father as he carried the wood for the fire he was to be sacrificed on. Jesus carried the wooden cross He would be crucified on. Here the similarity ends.Abraham was stopped just before he plunged the knife into his son, but God allowed His son to be crucified. Yet, as Isaac was figuratively raised from the dead as his life was spared, Jesus died and arose on the third day. Abraham so loved God that he was willing to sacrifice his son. God so loved us that He did sacrifice His son. Praise God for His amazing love for us!

prayer focuses

Thank the Lord for His incredible sacrifice and love.

Lord, help me to be worthy of the sacrifice You have made for me.

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about the

Author

Brenda Beattie

Brenda Beattie is a retired letter carrier and an active Chaplain for the USPS. She and her husband retired to Bradenton because they loved their church, Bayside Community Church. She has self-published two books, "Finding Sacred Ground In The Daily Grind," and "The Case Of The Missing Letter." She is also a repeat author for "Chicken Soup For The Soul." Her articles appear monthly in the "Mountaineer," a postal publication. Her hearts desire is to encourage and to give hope.