Father Abraham

Father Abraham

Genesis 12.1-7; 13.2-18

 

Spirit called; Abram heard; a new situation proposed;

Relocation meant gathering possessions, people, critters,

West to Canaan, many new neighbors, he supposed.

Abram answered only to God, inheritance to fritters.

 

Nephew, Lot, pulled up stakes, decided to come along.

Much land, few settlers, their migration a sight to see;

Nightly gatherings ‘round the fire, many a travel song.

Dusty clouds billowed, a mighty horde, predators flee.

 

A domestic discussion involved water rights, land use.

Powerful Abram knew generosity would be best.

Lot chose the Jordan valley, water a plenty, needn’t be obtuse.

Abram balanced family, existing tribes, got his rest.

 

Constantly Spirit brought Creators’ message of abundance.

‘Look at the stars, the dust, the sand, more will be your seed.

Listen not to the fears of wife, family or others ‘twill not enhance.

As you faithfully travel Word Made Flesh will meet your need’.

 

How fares your family estate, your plenteous possessions?

Do the idols of security, status, retirement push their fears?

In the quiet of your heart, hear you Spirit’s concessions?

Doubt not your belovedness, grace never’s in arrears.

 

Go about this day travelling light, pausing for a while.

Set a special altar out to remind whom you serve.

We travel through this land of time, don’t much compile;

Every need will be met; wants leave aside; takes nerve.

 

Be mindful of the care that the One brings to all.

Bless much, curse little, serve Spirit each moment.

Enjoy the journey, morning light to evening call.

Our faith asks love, justice be our daily remnant.

 

Mothers, fathers stand firm in truth, joyful care.

Bring a message of accountability, service rendered free.

Courage, discipline, clear boundaries we must dare.

Historians will pen the accounts for generations to see.

 

The Rev. Ronald Allen Melver, M.Div.

5 December 2013