Scripture:
Genesis 18:16-33
Matthew 8:18-22
Reflection:
We are indeed a blessed people! We have Abraham, our forefather in faith who loves us so much that he is willing to plead our case before God, even at the risk of making God angry! We have an even greater blessing in being created and loved into being by a God who is kind and merciful. I can imagine Abraham being very frustrated with the people of Sodom and Gomorrah! They were clearly messing up and Abraham was sure that even though he believed God loved those people, they clearly needed to be taught a lesson! God on the other hand, knew of Abraham’s faithfulness and love for his people and did not want Abraham to be put in the middle of any of this messiness.
Isn’t this just like our God who loves us unconditionally, especially during those times we have really messed up! We can only hope that the people of Sodom and Gomorrah appreciated their saved lives were a result of Abraham’s intercession and God’s love for his faithful servant.
This story in today’s scripture reminds me of how important and necessary it is for us to LISTEN! Just as it was important and life-changing for Abraham and God to listen and really hear what the real message and concerns were, so it is with us. COVID mandated listening above all else. We couldn’t do anything else except to listen to those we lived with, to the programs and advice we tuned into on social media, as well as the scientists and medical profession who tried their best to keep us healthy.
Psalm 95:8, If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. This psalm is a favorite of mine and keeps me grounded in listening and hearing God’s plan for my life. I have found whether it is pre-covid, post-covid or no covid times, God’s voice always comes through loud and clear! Now, I will admit, it isn’t always something I want to hear at the time or even understand it at other times, but through grace I am eventually able to get the message!
Summer is breaking out all around us these days! Gardens in bloom, families gather, parish churches throwing wide their doors, sunsets, boating, picnics, swimming, are all in full swing. It is not a time to harden our hearts, rather, stay tuned to God’s voice to be heard and God’s presence seen all around and within us! Happy Summer!
Theresa Secord is a former Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.