Yet, for me to understand some of the significance the Holy Spirit had me to zero in on Abraham sending his servant out to go find a bride for Isaac. The narrative begins in Genesis chapter 24.
As a father, Abraham knew that it was vital for Isaac to walk where God had ordained and established his path. It was so imperative that he sent a servant ahead to prepare his way. Because he walked in this chosen path Isaac simply trod where his father had already proceeded! It fits the expression; like father - like son. That is how Matthew wants us to see the Messiah; like FATHER - like SON.
You see, I discovered that there was a personal and intimate relationship that took place between the Father and Son. This relationship was so central to the father that it was mutual between the Master and his servant. There was a responsibility that was shared between the two. A covenant made. The Master (Abraham) provided specific direction to the servant. Yet, the servant was wholly committed to the Master. Everything the servant did was out of relationship to the Master. As a result, the servant was placed in charge of everything. That is just what I found throughout the book of Matthew written about Christ.
As I continued to read, I discovered the ultimate gift of man's free will as the servant began to reason and rationalize with the Father regarding the willingness of the bride. Remember, not just any bride would do. So, the servant asked questions such as "What if" or "Shall I?" Therefore, the Master provided reassurance to his servant. First, it is seen in his request. Second, it is observed in his responsibilities. Yet, I was completely astonished how the Master released the servant if she was unwilling to take part as Isaac's bride. It is depicted in the wooing and pursuit of the bride.
An oath was bound. The servant walks in complete agreement in response to the Master's request. He sets out on his earthly way in pursuit of the Master's divine plan. The servant receives a revelation. His prayer was answered specifically and also instantaneously. Yet, the servant regards closely to discern if God's will was done. He doesn't assume anything. Instead, he tests it to see if indeed he was successful and in the midst of the Master's will. By this, he grew confident in his master, in his mission and in himself. Yet, the servant pointed all things to his Master.
Afterwards, the servant paid great reverence. He gained results. He was received and welcomed. He was refreshed. He was remembered. His testimony became knowledge to all. Matthew wants us to see that this entire story is a type and foreshadowing of Christ.
You see, I also discovered in this passage that the servant was rewarded. First, he was rewarded for his faithfulness and commitment. Second, he was rewarded for his prayer. Third, he was rewarded for his willingness. He even experienced a unique return and was given a great reception. He recognized that his responsibility and task was completely fulfilled. He honored his Master. He later partook in a Wedding Celebration. Oh, the irony!
My friend, this is not simply a chronicle shared between Abraham and Isaac here. Matthew wants us to observe how this has become a part of the Messiah's story written for our behalf. Christ became that servant portrayed and fulfilled in the Old Testament. He had a relationship and bond shared between the Father that is very intimate and personal. Their responsibility was mutual. Christ depicts the servant's relationship to the Master. Everything Jesus did was out of relationship for His FATHER.
You see, our Father in His foreknowledge understood how vital it was for the Messiah to walk where He ordained and established. It was so imperative that God sent a forerunner ahead to prepare His way. That forerunner was John the Baptist. Christ trod the path of His Father's footsteps. He was and is; like FATHER-like SON.
Jesus had a personal and intimate relationship with the Father. This relationship was so central to the Father that a covenant was established and made. God gave the Messiah specific direction. Christ was wholly committed to the Master. As a result, Christ was placed in charge of everything in heaven and here on earth.
What's so amazing to me in this story is how we are given a free will to choose if we want to be a part of that relationship with the Father and Son. The Holy Spirit is wooing and in hot pursuit of us too. However, we must be willing. After all, it is "whosoever will come...come."
Christ came as the servant. He fulfilled His Father's request. He set out on His earthly way in pursuit of the Master's divine plan. He was humanly tested. Yet, Christ achieved God's will. God's will was made complete in the Messiah.
Christ gave great reverence. He achieved divine results. He was also received back unto the Father's presence with an angelic welcome. The real question is...are you are part of the bride and planning to partake in the WEDDING CELEBRATION? We've definitely been given an invitation!
Finally, Christ is remembered. His testimony was herald throughout his family, community and this earth. Matthew is simply pointing the Jewish people to Him through the life of Isaac so that Christ is unveiled, revealed and HE becomes knowledge to all.
My friend, I am amazed and in awe of Christ our Messiah!
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