Lessons in Faith

This morning I read more of the Abraham narrative. God comes to Abraham, an childless old man, telling him that the apparently impossible will happen: he will have a big family…

We’ve been watching Wolf Hall, a TV drama series about Henry VIII. His desire for a son resulted in action, leading to national political and religious upheaval, and the varied fate of his six wives.

Unlike Henry, Abraham did nothing: ‘Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.’ Abraham’s faith is seen in his inaction. Later, when he takes his son to sacrifice him, Abraham’s faith is active…

Yesterday I went to visit my friend Geoff in hospital. Geoff has a serious heart condition and limited mobility; in recent weeks his dementia has deteriorated. He was sound asleep. I could do nothing practical to help him.

A lady came to see Geoff. She introduced herself as Dannii, a member of the dementia safeguarding team. She described how she’d met Geoff and his wife previously, explaining her work with medical staff and care providers in the community… safeguarding, guarding Geoff’s safety.

As she outlined Geoff’s future options I realised again how dependent we are on the professionals; we exercise faith in those with knowledge, skill and expertise that’s much greater than ours.

Yesterday evening daughter-Jo posted: ‘Lego gingerbread men and blossom with Luca this evening.’ It’s fascinating… Lego has developed from being a children’s toy to becoming a hobby that adults enjoy, purchasing and assembling complicated, expensive models… Harry Potter’s Hogwart’s Castle… Ferrari racing cars…

I’ve never been a Lego enthusiast; I confess to significant Lego ignorance. Two things I do know, that may be another picture of faith. 1. You believe that all of the parts required will be in the box. 2. You’re confident that if you follow the instructions, one step at a time, then you will be successful.

Musing… Abraham and Henry, Geoff and Dannii, Jo and Lego… lessons in faith.