Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Confused (08/16/07)
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TITLE: Confused, Perplexed and Bewildered in Canaan | Previous Challenge Entry
By Sandra Fischer
08/20/07 -
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Dear Gabby,
Some time ago the Lord told me that my wife, Sarah, would be with child and I would become the “father of many”. What a shocker! Sarah almost split her sides laughing, because we were both well beyond child-bearing years and the chances of our having a child were slim to none. We wondered if it were possible. Many years passed and nothing happened; then, Sarah had an idea about how we could help things along by using her maid, Hagar, as a surrogate. So, I took her to my bed and in due time she gave birth to a son. Now, I have a new problem - Hagar has become very arrogant toward Sarah. Sarah is saying it’s all my fault and I need to do something about it. I am really confused. How can I keep two wives happy when they are about to drive me crazy with their constant bickering? Please send advice and hurry!
Confused in Canaan
Dear Confused,
Your situation reminds me of one your ancestor, Adam, faced. When he tried to be a good husband by taking his wife’s advice, he bit off more than he could chew. That act gave birth to a plethora of problems, as you may well remember. Since this was Sarah’s idea, let her deal with Hagar as she sees fit and just stay clear until the whole thing blows over.
Sincerely,
Gabby
Canaan Chronicle – 2067 BC
Dear Gabby,
You may remember me. I wrote a few years ago about the Lord telling me I would become the “father of many”. Well, I’m happy to report He’s speaking to me again after 13 years of silence (probably because of my former escapade with Hagar). He changed my name to mean “father of multitudes” and, get this -He said Sarah would give birth to a son next year! She laughed again, thinking it was a big joke - she just turned 90! God assured her that nothing is too hard for Him. This is great news; however, He also brought bad news. He is so fed up with the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah that He is going to destroy them. I am quite perplexed about this, because my nephew and his family have chosen to live there. I can’t understand why God would destroy the righteous along with evil-doers. I’m really at a loss as to what I should do – can you give me some insight?
Perplexed in Canaan
Dear Perplexed,
Congratulations on your expected arrival! Patience certainly pays off, doesn’t it? As far as Sodom and Gomorrah - I wouldn’t go near them. Lot chose his lot, so to speak, when he went there. You could warn him to get out before things turn really bad. As to whether or not God would destroy the righteous with the unrighteous, why not ask Him, since you are on close speaking terms again. You could also put it on the Tabernacle prayer chain.
Regards,
Gabby
Canaan Chronicle – 2046 BC
Dear Gabby,
Here I am again – “father of multitudes”. I am happy to report Sarah and I have a fine son named Isaac. He is a teenager now and a true joy. You probably know what transpired with Sodom and Gomorrah, but I did ask the Lord about it. He promised if He could find ten righteous men in the cities, He would not destroy them. Alas, there were less than ten – in fact, only my nephew and his daughters escaped and his wife found it all quite distasteful. Now, I am deeply bewildered about a new situation. God has asked me to do something very strange. He has asked me to offer up Isaac as a sacrifice to Him! How can I possibly beget multitudes if I sacrifice the only son Sarah and I have? Please send an answer quickly!
Bewildered in Canaan
Dear Bewildered,
You certainly have a way with getting into difficult situations. Did you do something to offend God? Are you sure you heard correctly? After all, your hearing is not what it used to be. Did Sarah give you any input regarding this? Well, maybe that wouldn’t be such a good idea, as I recall from a previous experience. Frankly, I think it would be wise to follow His specific orders and to trust Him both now and in the future. You see, I am retiring my advice column.
Keep the faith!
Shalom,
Gabby
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