“When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless. Then I will make my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers.”” Genesis 17:1-2
Have you ever noticed the way diehard fans interact with their favorite celebrities that they idolize? “Oh my gosh! I cannot believe that I’m actually here finally getting to meet you! I am a huge fan of yours! I have every album you’ve recorded, and I know the lyrics to every song! I even know your favorite food! Would you mind taking a selfie with me?”
It’s literally a one-sided experience. The celebrity knows absolutely nothing about the person who’s shamelessly worshipping them, other than realizing that they’re annoying and that they apparently don’t have much of a life.
But isn’t it fascinating and thought-provoking how their interactions with the person (or thing) they idolize is completely contrary to our interactions with God?
We know so very little about God, and yet there’s no need for a formal introduction on our part. He’s our Creator and already knows everything about us! So although we’re certainly not idolized by Him, it is by His divine invitation that we get to know His nature.
Abram was nearly 100 years old when God appeared to him and extended His divine invitation. I am the Lord your God, Abram. Faithfully walk with me and keep my commands, and I will enter into a covenant with you. I will grow your family and fill the earth with your people.”
Friend, did you know that God, in his infinite love and mercy, appears before us today and extends to us this same invitation? Abram was 99 years old, and yet God said, “I can use you. I can grow your numbers. Walk faithfully with me and I will honor my covenant with you.”
There are no ropes, no need for backstage passes or VIP badges. God knows us already! The only requirement is to simply accept His invitation to spend more time with Him, not only so we can get to know Him better, but so that we can have a personal relationship with Him and live our lives in service to Him.
Reflection for Today: Think about how God has appeared to you and initiated a relationship with you. What has been your response?
Former Blackout Artist 