In a cultural practice of that time, tension arises between Abraham’s two wives. Sarai is jealous of Hagar, and encourages Abram to banish her, so against better judgement he does. In a moment that looks bleak, and heart breaking, God shows up in surprising ways to care for Hagar and her son. God’s grace has this ability to break into our lives in all kinds of ways if we are aware of it.

Phrases like when rubber meets the road, the moment of truth, name the moment where our ideas, beliefs, and theories have to be tested, or put into practice. In Genesis 22 Abraham steps into one of those moments. Where the same God he left his home for, who rescued his nephew, who he trusted with his family, is now asking Abraham do you really trust me? When I talk to people it is often in these challenging moments that people experience their greatest growth. They are also moments that few of us look forward to.