Gen 22:1-2,9-18; Psalm 115(116):10.15-19; Rom 8:31-34; Mark 9: 2-10
In Genesis God sets a greater test of Abraham’s faith than might appear: Isaac seems now to be Abraham’s only son. His wife, Sarah, had persuaded Abraham to drive out into the desert his other son, Ishmael, with her mother, Hagar, the slave woman. God had promised Abraham would be father of a host of nations, with as many descendants as stars in the sky. How could this now come about? On the way Isaac had asked “Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham answered: “God will provide himself”. Abraham’s faith is rewarded and God renews his covenant.
The psalmist offers sacrifice and grateful praise after God heard his prayer at death’s door.
Paul urges the Romans to have similar trust in God. That God gave up his only Son to death shows how completely God loves us. Paul insists that nothing can separate us from the love of God.
In our last reading from Mark’s gospel until the Ascension, the disciples appear confused by Jesus’ transfiguration. Although God has again confirmed Jesus as his Son, they do not understand how Jesus relates to Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets. After Jesus’ resurrection they would realise Jesus had come to fulfil the whole of Israel’s scriptures.
Psalm Response: I will walk in the presence of the Lord in the land of the living.