Genesis 16 tells Sarai’s idea of how they could have a child.  It was in common use in their culture.  As our times and current popular opinions often lead us in directions God would not approve Abram and Sarai made a similar mistake.  A child by another woman was not in Jehovah’s perfect will.

This hiccup did not surprise Him.  His promise of the number of people groups that would come from the Patriarch is increased even more through Ishmael.  While this was not the original plan it did not destroy God’s goal.  Often, we delay God, but can never derail Him.

In Genesis seventeen we are introduced to circumcision as a symbol of nationality.   Even today Hebrew males have their foreskin removed eight days after their birth.  The ceremony is called a bris.  It is equivalent to the Baptism of babies in certain Christian denominations.  Without it, your son will not be part of the inheritance of Abraham.

God also changes Abram’s name from Exalted Father to Father of Many.  This is also the chapter where Sarah’s name is changed, and God includes her in the biological lineage of the nations and kings to come.

The name of the child to carry the covenant is interesting. Isaac means He Laughs. Every time Abraham and Sarah called their son, they would be reminded of the fact they thought this child being born was laughable.

We’ve arrived in chapter 18 of the first book in the Old Testament. Abraham sees three men coming towards his tent. He implores them to stop and eat with him. They stayed for several hours. Long enough to butcher and cook a calf. This is a much longer process than thawing steak in the microwave.

Some believe this was an early incarnation of Jesus with two angels. Others view the three as representing the triune Godhead. The Lord announces that the child will be born within a year. This time, it is Sarah’s turn to laugh at the idea.

The purpose of the visit is to warn Lot and Abraham that Sodom and Gomorrah will be destroyed. Abraham convinces God not to follow through if only ten righteous people can be found. This story continues tomorrow.