4,000 Year Old Promise



Romans 9:6-8
6But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel,
7and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.”
8This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring.

Thirty years ago, I was part of the team that did children’s ministry at our church. We would lead music, tell stories, and do all kinds of goofy stuff to interact with the children. Some of it was meaningful and some of it was stupid. One of my less than pleasant memories of that time was a song called “Father Abraham”.

Father Abraham had many sons
Many sons had father Abraham
I am one of them and so are you
So let’s just praise the Lord
Right arm
 
And then you would begin pumping your right arm in time to the music. The song had multiple verses as you worked your way through the body, involving both arms, legs, your head and finally your whole body. It was crazy. The kids loved it, requested it, and just the memory of it still makes me shudder.

Just in case you’ve never heard it (which is a state you may wish to maintain), I’ve provided a link so that you can hear the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbLvpd9bUL4

The point of the song (albeit painfully taught) is repeated in every verse – Many sons had Father Abraham, I am one of them and so are you. All who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior are considered to be descendants of Abraham. We are numbered among those sands on the shore or stars in the sky that God used to illustrate how many descendant Abraham would have. Paul now brings that point into full bloom as he reiterates this truth for his readers. We are members of God’s family originated in the promises made to Abraham. Our rights as sons and daughters are complete and unassailable.

It may seem like a small point but it isn’t. It speaks of our identity and placement in the Kingdom of God. We are manifestations of God’s power to save us. We are the fulfillment of a promise made 4,000 years ago. Can you see how the greatness of God shines through that statement? Keeping a 4,000 year old promise is amazing. His plan is that complicated, ancient, and perfect. And He’s been holding that promise together long enough so that you can be a part of it because as a believer, you are one of His elect. We will get into that whole thing next week. In the meantime, marvel at His greatness and celebrate His grace in your life.

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