January 3, 2022 - Genesis 11,12

The story continues and some important blanks begin to get filled in. A redeemer – as Westte so well put it, “a serpent crusher” – is coming (Genesis 3:15). Just yet, we’re not sure, precisely, who that will be or when he will come or where he will be born and live. A redeemer, though, was desperately needed. The people began to build, not in order to honor or give thanksgiving to the Creator, but in the attempt to make a name for themselves. And, so, at Babel, “the Lord confused the language of all the earth. And from there the Lord dispersed them over the face of all the earth” (11:9).

A dark moment. But, oh, let’s not forget the coming redeemer! We are introduced to Terah and his family who begin to make their way from Babylon to Canaan. At Haran, God spoke to Abram, gave him instructions, and made wonderful promises to him. Could this man Abram be the one? No, but from him will come a great nation and the nations of the earth will be blessed through his descendant. God’s plan is right on track! What a story we have! What a story to tell!

Oh, teach me, Lord, that I may teach

The precious truths which you impart.

And wing my words that they may reach

The hidden depths of many a heart.

Oh, fill me with your fullness, Lord,

Until my very hearts o’erflows

In kindling thought and glowing word,

Your love to tell, your praise to show. -- Frances R. Havergal (1872)