God's Patience

  In re-reading our text, Genesis 17:15-22, I am amazed at God's patience.  God waits while Abraham laughs at the notion that he and Sarah will have a child at their advanced age.  Then Abraham suggests to God that the covenant be established through Ishmael.  God calmly replies, "No, but your wife Sarah shall bear you a son."  So the covenant will be established through Isaac. However, God does not forget Ishmael.  "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; I will bless him and make him fruitful and exceedingly numerous."
  God does not appear to be offended by Abraham's laughter nor by his suggestion that the covenant be established through Ishmael.  He patiently explains that Abraham's legitimate wife, not Hagar, will have a son, as He said all along.  It was Sarah who lost patience with God's promise and her infertility.  God shows himself more patient than Abraham and Sarah both.
  For reflection:  How and when has God been patient with me?
  Let us pray.  Lord of Patience, thank you for all the occasions that you have been patient with me. . . .  Forgive me for all the times I have been impatient with you.

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