Reflections on A Covenant of Faith
From Abram to Us
This Sunday, we journey through three scriptures that illuminate God's covenantal relationship with humanity, focusing on the thread that binds them: faith.
Our journey starts with God renewing his covenant with Abram in Genesis 17:1-7. God’s covenant, commemorated by a name change to “Abraham”, promises to make him "the father of a multitude of nations," a seemingly impossible feat for an elderly man without an heir. Yet, Abram believes. This faith is not about blind acceptance, but about trusting in God's character and promises, even when logic dictates otherwise.
In Romans 4:13-25, Paul tells us that Abraham's righteousness came not from his works, but from his faith. This concept is revolutionary, challenging the idea that we earn God's favor through our actions. Instead, faith in God's grace is the key, a truth that resonates across generations.
Mark’s Gospel (8:31-38) has Jesus telling us a shocking truth to his followers: following him will require each of us to take up our own cross and endure. The path to salvation is not paved with comfort or popularity, but with commitment to God's will, even if it means facing rejection and suffering.
God's covenantal relationship is a gift, offered freely to all who believe. As we reflect on Abram's faith, Paul's teaching, and Jesus' call, let us remember:
- We are not alone: We are part of a vast community of faith, stretching back through time, bound by the same covenant of God’s love.
- Faith is a journey: It's not about perfection, but about growing closer to God each day.
- Following Christ is transformative: It challenges us, shapes us, and ultimately leads to a life of purpose and joy.
Following Christ is challenging. Living in covenant with God pushes us to grow. Moving our self-centered lives into lives of love and recovering our true selves as the loving creatures we are made to be, is always challenging…but it is worth the effort in taking up our cross.
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