Abraham’s First Altar

It was a bad week for some of our people – and a good week for others. Some spent 24 hours in A&E and emerged feeling awful, and another fell and cracked several ribs. Bad! Two flew off to Portugal. Good! Some of us had a mixed week, and were present on Sunday morning. 

There was praise and worship as ever, with a reading from Frank, and several praying for those not present.

We looked at Genesis 12, and progressed to Abraham building his first altar at Shechem. An actual historical event, but symbolic with meaning for us. Abraham was in the right place at the right time, because he obeyed God. Maybe he was worshipping, or waiting on God. The Lord appeared to him in a vision, and promised that the land of Canaan would belong to him and his descendants. This promise was later repeated to Isaac and to Jacob. And so to whom does the land now called Israel, or ‘Palestine’ by some belong? Well, the earth is the Lord’s, and so it is his, or to whomsoever he gives it. So the land from the Euphrates to the Mediterranean belongs to Israel.

Shechem means shoulder, and biblically represents strength. Having received a promise from the Lord, Abraham moved on in strength.

The lesson for us – be in a place where you can hear from God, and embrace his promises. Practical examples – if he has promised you some provision, or opportunity, or calling, etc. and it hasn’t happened yet, you know you will have the health and strength to live until it is realised! 

Canaan was a hostile environment, and Canaanites were hostile people, but Abraham went forward in strength, because he knew the land would be given to him and his children.

The prayer meeting is on Thursday at Catfield.

Next Sunday, the meeting is at Catfield. If possible, letShirlene know if you are going.