Today’s scripture: Genesis 21:22-34 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
Oh, the adventures of being a landlord! My husband Dan and I had a tenant who was way behind on rent, with no money. So Dan came up with a creative way for him to catch up. He would paint the outside of the house with a paint sprayer that Dan had rented. After getting some of the house painted, the tenant told Dan that the sprayer had been stolen, claiming he had locked it up as instructed, but that someone had broken into the storage area and taken it. As a result, Dan had to pay $1400 for the paint sprayer.
The account in today’s text reminds me of this story because Abraham had his well forcefully taken by Abimelech’s servants. As it turned out, Abraham and Abimelech came up with a wonderful, cooperative way to make amends that made both parties happy.
That reminds me of another landlord story that’s similar to the cooperation and respect shown in the Genesis account. Dan and I were working in the attic of our house with a friend, when suddenly our friend fell through the ceiling, catching himself with his legs dangling down in the living room below — much to the surprise of the residents sitting on the couch! Our friend admirably paid us for the damages, without even being asked. So this story had a happy ending, a model of fairness and responsibility.
Thought for the day: When someone damages or loses another’s property, respect and personal responsibility are keys to making things right.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.