New Horizons by Faith

As we enter A.D. 2008, let us seek the faith of Abraham, who God led into a new land to establish him there as a blessing to the nations. As Abraham set his face to the western horizon, his heart must have been heavy. His father, Terah, had died in Haran, leaving his territory and inheritance to Nahor, Abraham's older brother. Even before this, Abraham had experienced the loss of his oldest brother, Haran, who died in Ur.

Nahor's gain of the inheritance, according to the right of primogenitor, would serve God's purpose later in the formation of the tribes of Israel, but Abraham could not have known this. He headed west with a heavy heart, the anxiety of an uncertain future, and a mustard seed faith that allowed him to hear God's call to move forward.

By this faith Abraham responded to God's call to "go to a mountain that I will show you" and offer up his beloved son. On that mountain Father Abraham discovered what every true believer has discovered: God is faithful to those who put their trust in Him. Our God provides all our needs on the mountain of His choosing, through the sacrifice that God Himself provides.

His mercies are renewed daily. His faithfulness endures forever. May the New Year confirm this reality in our lives as we face new horizons by faith.