A Father’s Agony

So Abraham rose early in the morning ... and went to the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off. And Abraham said to his young men, "... the lad and I will go yonder and worship, and we will come back to you." ... Isaac spoke to Abraham his father ... "Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" And Abraham said, "My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering."
(Genesis 22:3-5,7-8 NKJV)

By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, "In Isaac your seed shall be called," concluding that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead. (Hebrews 11:17-19 NKJV)

Abraham’s story shines despite countless retellings. His love of God stood ready to do whatever might be asked, started without hesitation, persisted through a long journey, believed God’s promise, and testified to others with faith that defied reason. Finally, Abraham simply obeyed. He followed through on the act that would cause suffering to the one he loved, and hurt more deeply than if he applied the knife to himself.

God asked all this of no one else but Himself.

Dear Abba, loving Father, thank You for the sacrifice of Your Beloved Son. Thank You for Your suffering, for not withdrawing Your hand at the last moment. Please teach us to say, "Here I am" to all You ask.

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