Rooted in Grace, Moved by Love: Trusting God’s Promises

This week, we turn to two stories from Genesis that remind us of God’s faithfulness. In Genesis 21:1-3, we witness the miraculous birth of Isaac—God keeping the promise made to Abraham and Sarah, bringing life where hope seemed impossible. Later, in Genesis 22:1-14, Abraham faces a heartrending test of faith, called to sacrifice his beloved son, only to have God provide a ram at the last moment. Together, these passages tell a story of trust, promise, and provision.

The story of Abraham being asked to sacrifice Isaac is complex and has troubled theologians for centuries. It is not a tender image of God, and it naturally sparks the question: why? Why would a loving God ask this of Abraham? Isn’t this cruel, even if it proves faith? These are questions we will ponder as a community this week—honest questions that matter.

In many ways, these stories speak directly to us. We know what it’s like to face uncertainty, to wonder if the promises we cling to will hold, or if the right path forward will be revealed. Like Abraham and Sarah, we are called to trust that God’s grace is steadfast, even when the future is unclear. Like Abraham on the mountain, we are reminded that God often provides in ways we cannot foresee—teaching patience and the courage to love despite risk.

Change can feel unsettling, even frightening. But the story of Abraham and Isaac reminds us that God’s love is bigger than our anxiety, bigger than the uncertainty of leadership, bigger than fear itself. Living “Rooted in Grace, Moved by Love” means stepping forward with faith—trusting God’s promises, caring for one another, and listening for the life-giving guidance that comes in the midst of difficulty.

Next week, we’ll explore what it means to live faithfully, with open hearts, in times of both joy and tension. We are also thrilled to welcome Amer Hammauah and his family on September 14. Amer and his family are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Beit Sahour, outside Bethlehem. They will share the story of their community, which has endured many times of fear, and bring beautifully hand-carved olive artwork to offer to our congregation—supporting fellow believers in the Holy Land.

Come hear their story. Come expecting to be reminded that God’s promises are real, God’s grace surrounds us, and love—always—leads the way.

Peace,

Pastor Katie