Sunday, June 18: Genesis 18:1-15, 21:1-7

In Sunday’s reading (June 18, 2023), the Lord visits Abraham in the form of three men.  

Abraham prevails upon them to stay awhile, rest, and have a meal, and then runs to Sarah to give instructions for a grand meal. He slaughters and prepares his best animals for his guests.  .

The three sit in the shade under the Oaks of Mamre and wait, until at last Abraham brings them the food and stands by them as they eat.  

After the meal, they ask about Sarah, who listens from a tent nearby. They promise to return and that Sarah will bear a son, which is just too fantastical: she laughs right out loud—they are too old for that kind of relationship.  

To which they respond, “Is there anything too wonderful for the Lord?”

The lectionary for Sunday skips over three challenging chapters of Genesis to the birth of Isaac, the fulfillment of the promise.