Romans 4

My grandfather passed away last spring, a pillar of our family. He was many things us. He was farm boy, purple heart recipient, and CEO. He sang hymns, wrote poetry, and painted seascapes. He was nursemaid, storyteller, and drill sergeant. He fed raccoons, drank scotch whiskey, and cheered for the Mets. He loved his wife, his boys, and all his grandchildren. Most of all, he loved God with a love that sprang from a deep faith in the goodness of the heavenly Father.

His faith was a blessing to me.

We share a relative like that...Abraham. He is many things to believers. He was a farm boy, a warrior, a chieftain. He worshipped God, built altars, traversed landscapes. He was healer, counselor, and herdsman. He raised cattle, negotiated with rulers, and lived for a long time. He loved his wife, his boys, and all his descendants, who are as numerous as the stars in the sky. Most of all he loved God with a love that sprang from a deep faith in the goodness of the heavenly Father.

His faith is a blessing to all of us.

Paul tells us that "Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness" and that "he is the father of all who believe...in order that righteousness might be credited to them." Paul goes on to tell us that we are all "Abraham’s offspring," adopted into his family because we embrace "the faith of Abraham." As descendants of Abraham, as his heirs, we enjoy a blessing credited to him and to his numberless family. Receive it.

“Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered."

"Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them."

Be blessed.