Abraham, Sarai, Hagar and Ishmael

Text: Genesis 16:1-14

Reflection and Question: In the sweep of the Genesis stories about “the patriarchs,” the women involved pretty much just came along for the ride until the establishment of the women’s movement with its interest in Bible and theology. The complex dynamics between Sarai and Hagar now take center stage in this passage. Abraham wisely stays out of it, but God does not, caring for and blessing both women and Ishmael, the slave-girl’s son. And the angel’s words to Hagar echo Gabriel’s to Mary generations later. What lesson do you draw from the story of Sarai and Hagar?

Prayer: Blessed Spirit, the life and times of Sarai and Hagar are so very different from our own. And yet You reveal Your Word for us in the way they lived their lives. Shine in our hearts, as You did for them, to know Your Will and Your Way. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).