Friday Worship - 31.07.2020

'Behold the Lamb of God!'

by Deacon Crimson

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First Reading: - Genesis: 22

Second Reading: - Hebrews 11: 17 – 19

Gospel Reading: - John 1: 29 – 34

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John 1: 29

John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world !

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Dear Brethren,

Greetings to you in the Redeeming Name of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Today the Eid is celebrated all around the Arab World. In every house, they slaughter normally a ram in memory of Abraham's sacrifice that was made in Mount Moriah. (They believe as if it was Ismail) But the bible is clear that Abraham took Isaac to be sacrificed on the mount. And Lord had already kept a ram there to be sacrificed in the place of Isaac.

We all know the story how, Abraham was so obedient to God. He followed the command of the Lord above his love for his only beloved son, who was born in his old age. Abraham never delayed when the command come to him. The following morning, he started his journey towards Moriah for three days. Our Lord never invites any human sacrifice. But this particular act was to test Abraham about his faithfulness and obedience to God.

In the primitive culture especially in the heathen religions, there were human sacrifices in order to satisfy the evil spirits. Earlier in India, such sacrifices were made when big bridges, dams or ponds were built. All such activities were done to appease the pagan gods. But here, we understand, the Lord God Almighty was asking his friend (James 2:23) Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son. But at the end ,we know it was just to test his faith and obedience. He had a tremendous faith on the Almighty God because he promised him of a vast generation through Isaac that would simply outnumber the stars in heaven.

Hebrews 11:19

Abraham was certain that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did get Isaac back in this way.

It was the most painful moment for Abraham when the Lord asked him for his son. But it was a joyous return as he received greater blessings from the Lord. This was because he was faithful and obedient. This act was symbolic and a foreshadowing of the things to come of the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Shouldn't we thank God for this great sacrifice that has saved us from the wrath of sin.

In James 2: 21 – 23, we read that by faith Abraham sacrificed his son but got him back with greater blessings not only for himself, as well as to the rest of the world. In the same way, we understand the Father who gave up His only begotten Son to be sacrificed on the cross. Jesus was ready to taste the cruel punishment of death for our sake just like a lamb that is offered on the altar. If we see the character of a lamb, it is lovely, meek, and should be under protection and care of the master.

Dear brethren, though being the lion of Judah, Jesus humbled himself like a lamb that ought to be sacrificed for the remission of all our sins. He accepted all pains and sufferings like a lamb. Because of His spotless blood that was shed on the cross, we are cleansed and have received the great privilege of eternal life. Moreover, he has conquered death and decay. No Roman seal or domain could keep him in the tomb.

Psalm 126: 5

Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Prayer

Loving heavenly Father, when there is a demand from you, many times, we are reluctant to submit. Thank you Lord for the good lesson, we have learnt from the life of Abraham. With painful heart he went towards the altar but he came back with greater blessings. Lord help us to understand that any trial that happens in our life always turn out to be good. Thank you Lord for Jesus who gave up himself on the cross so that many may have ray of hope of eternal salvation. In Jesus’ Name, we worship you. Amen.

Amen!

Bible Passages Referred

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