Understanding the Word

By Dianne Bergant, C.S.A.

The story known as “The Sacrifice of Isaac” might be better called “The Testing of  Abraham.” The story itself states; “God put Abraham to the test.” Furthermore, Isaac  is never really sacrificed. Abraham, the “father of a multitude” (see Genesis 7:15),  is being put to the test. From a human point of view, Abraham’s response to God’s  demand is terrifying, yet demonstrates his unquestioned obedience. Abraham  relinquishes his natural claim on the child of promise, and he is blessed with a  promise of more children than he can count. God is not outdone in generosity. 

Paul wonders who will bring a charge against God’s chosen ones, who will  condemn them, and who will justify them. He identifies God as this judge. Paul  argues that if the sovereign God is on our side, then regardless of what can be  mustered against us, it is nothing in comparison to God’s power. If God is willing  to sacrifice a beloved Son for our sake, it is impossible that God would deny us  whatever other trivial things we might need. Finally, if Jesus has willingly died  for us, he would certainly not turn around and condemn us. Besides, he is now  interceding for us. 

The transfiguration of Jesus knits together traditions of Israel’s past, insights  into Jesus’ own identity, and a glimpse into eschatological fulfillment. Moses and  Elijah represent the basis of Israel’s tradition, the law and the prophets respectively. Furthermore, both prefigure the prophetic dimension of the messianic  era. The voice from the cloud identifies Jesus as the beloved Son, reminiscent of  Isaac, who was also a beloved son. The connection with Isaac and Jesus suggests  that the voice is referring to Jesus’ teaching about his death. It may be that the  Transfiguration was intended to prepare the inner circle of disciples for Jesus’  unthinkable suffering and death in order to strengthen them in advance. 

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