Julie Andrews not withstanding and the lyrics of the Do-Re-Mi song (“Let’s  start at the very beginning…”) we are back to the beginning—  a new series of lessons in the Narrative Lectionary, a new program year in the church, new classes, new kids and a brand new half-century, or more, ahead for Grace Lutheran.

By virtue of the 50th anniversary celebration, we missed the actual creation story and this week focus on the age old story of promise to Sarah and Abraham, a precursor of God’s promise of a savior.

In the first three verses Isaac appears and then disappears until the primary story in the text— the test of Abraham.  What parent can’t identify with Abraham at this point?  As Terry Fretheim, Luther Seminary Old Testament professor emeritus comments on the text:  “(he) has just “lost” his son Ishmael (21:8-21). Now Isaac is said to be the ‘only son’ (22:2) left, and his life is put in danger by God’s own command. These two stories may be said to be mirrors of each other, focusing on the potential loss of both sons, and God’s provisions for both.”

He also points out “While this text has long occasioned theological and pastoral problems for readers, anxieties have intensified more recently because of the attention given to the abuse of children. What kind of God would command the sacrifice of a child? This God promises a son, fulfills that promise, and then takes it back. Can this God be trusted?”

The only character in this whole drama that seems to learn anything from the experience is God.  Abraham remains rather passive, who knows what Isaac thought other than probably absolute terror at being the initial object of sacrifice.  However, in Genesis 22:12, God says, “Now I know…” with regard to Abraham’s faithfulness.

As the story will unfold, God keeps his promise to Abraham, he does become the father of a great nation and through his lineage, Jesus will eventually appear as the ultimate sacrificial lamb.

This is a curious, puzzling text, with a curious yet to be revealed outcome.