TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

DEVOTIONAL

by Sandra Chua

When I tell my children to do something, the usual response is, “Why?” “Why do I have to do that?” “Why me?” We are taught to explain our actions, decisions, and commands to our children. Psychology says it is good for them to understand why. It comes to a point where the questioning and reasoning become tiring. “Because unplugged appliances might cause a fire, you have to make sure everything is unplugged before going to bed or going out.” “Because you are part of the family, you have to do your chores.” “Because your friend is not a good influence on you.” And when I run out of reasons, “Because  I said so!” 

I grew up in an era where we do not ask our parents “why .”We just obey. We just wait. We just wear what they buy us. We just eat what is served on the table.

When God asked Abraham to take Isaac and offer him as a sacrifice, God did not explain why. Abraham did not ask why. He promptly rose early in the morning. He probably had a hard time sleeping or didn’t sleep a wink at all. He saddled his donkeys, took two men along with his son, split some wood for the burnt offering, and went. 

It is perplexing that God specified and pointed out two things in His command: He said to take your “only son” and “the one you love.”

He emphasized Isaac was Abraham’s “unico hijo”. He was his “bao bei” (Chinese for baby). 

In my heart, I thought, I have 4 daughters; I couldn’t imagine giving even one. How will I obey when given the same command? In my heart, I saw Jesus on the cross. God gave His one and only son, the one He loves, and for whom??? For me? A sinner? It is an amazing love! How great the love that our Father has lavished upon us. How great is Jesus’s sacrifice as well.

REFLECTION

How can I strengthen my faith so that I will be able to sacrifice what I love to the Lord?

PRAYER