God with us in the tabernacle | Dec. 9
Genesis 12:1-3, Genesis 22
Bonny Wormald | Children’s Pastor – Abbotsford
As a parent, I see the power of presence or WITH-ness in the simplest, most tender moments. When my children are unwell, they seek the comfort of being with me or their Dad. They desire a WITH-ness that is constant. Being near them—physically, mentally and emotionally—makes them feel safe and connected, offering them peace and comfort. These moments are a reminder that sometimes, just being with the people we love and feel loved by in return is enough to feel a sense of peace.
In a way, this is a small picture of what God wanted with Abraham—and with us. From the beginning, God desired and pursued a close relationship with His people. In Genesis 12:1-3, God calls Abraham out of his homeland, promising to be with him and make him a great nation. God didn’t just call Abraham to set him on a distant journey alone, He promised His presence and blessing. Throughout scripture, God’s WITH-ness is demonstrated in His relentless pursuit of a people for Himself.
Later, in Genesis 22, we see this promise of WITH-ness on a deeper level.
When God asked Abraham to offer his son Isaac on Mount Moriah, Abraham obeyed, likely with a heavy heart yet trusting that God would somehow provide. Just as Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac, God stopped him and provided a ram in his place. In that moment, God was showing Abraham that He is not only with us but is our Provider—even in our most desperate moments. God’s presence was real on that mountain; and, He showed it by providing a sacrificial substitute, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice God Himself would one day make.
Today, God’s promise of WITH-ness is fulfilled in Jesus—God with us. Jesus offered Himself as the substitute for our sins, just like the ram for Isaac. And, just like Isaac didn’t resist being the sacrifice, Jesus didn’t resist being a sacrifice for His people, securing a forever WITH-ness that would be an unshakeable hope for His people.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank you for giving yourself as a sacrifice for us and securing a forever WITH-ness. Help us remember that you are with us now, just as you were with Abraham. You, who camped with your people and provided the perfect sacrifice, have promised never to leave us. Be our comfort, our peace, our Provider. Help us trust in your faithful presence. You are God with us, now and forever. Amen.