DON'T FORGET YOUR HOME

Read Genesis 22:20-24

MEMORISE: When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, "Take these men to my home, and slaughter an animal and made ready; for these men will dine with me at noon" (Genesis 43:16)

EXPOSITION

Abraham was called to leave his people to another land that God would show him (12:1-3). If he left his people in obedience to God, did he leave them in deed? There is no place like home, because it is always sweet, regardless of your feelings, or that of others. Despite that Abraham had become so blessed beyond measures (the promises, vows, etc.), he did not look on his people with disdain and contempt. The incident in our text today connotes that the 'father of faith' did not forget his idolatrous people. He still got news from his people and was glad at the increase and prosperity of his family members. He knew his people as good people, in spite of their idolatrous background. He appreciated the good side of them. No wonder he could still direct his chief servant to look for wife for Isaac, his son, from among this people of his (Gen. 24:3,4).

The fact that your parents and some other family members have not met Christ does not give you license to abandon them. Many so called Christians have incurred parental curses for starving their parents and denying them of some basic necessities of life. If you will not go to your village for anything, sending gifts to your parents and loved ones are highly rewarding.

Let us learn to look after our family members. The fact that a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined with his wife does not negate caring for the relatives, for that is your responsibility as a responsible son and daughter. Remember that as you do to others, so will others do to you. Hope you are not physically disconnected from your parents? When last did you hear from, or send any gift to them? Above all, there is an eternal home we all must long for. May we not incur God's wrath, in Jesus' name. Amen.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, put the love of my family members in my heart.

2. Father, please bring together, today, children who are separated from their families because of misunderstanding.

3. Oh Lord, help believers worldwide to be thirsty of heaven, rather than ephemeral things.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY: Hosea 8:6 - 12:10; Revelation 5:7 - 6:13

Remain blessed!