Genesis 25:7-11 (17.03.23)

Genesis 25:7-11 (NIVUK)
7 Abraham lived a hundred and seventy-five years. 8 Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people. 9 His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried him in the cave of Machpelah near Mamre, in the field of Ephron son of Zohar the Hittite, 10 the field Abraham had bought from the Hittites. There Abraham was buried with his wife Sarah. 11 After Abraham’s death, God blessed his son Isaac, who then lived near Beer Lahai Roi.

So ends Abraham’s story, and in these closing verses we see the beginnings of God’s promises being worked out. Both he and Sarah are buried in the land God had promised them, in their own tomb. Their son Isaac is there, as well as Ishmael, and as Abraha, dies, God’s blessing doesn’t end with him, but continues with Isaac. In so many ways, this is the start of our story, we are the descendents that follow the continued outworking of God’s promises and outflowing of his blessings. I was struck by Isaac and Ishmael being there together. Muslims and Christians, their ‘descendants’ are often portrayed as being opponents, and yes, our theologies do differ, but this doesn’t mean we have to be against each other. We called to love all and to work for the common good. Perhaps this moment can be an inspiration for us.

Thank you for your blessings on Abraham which you continue to pour out on us today. Forgive us for when we hoard them to ourselves, help us to share them for the good of all.