Building One Another

HERE I AM, Vol 8 No 27 (Part 1)

July 20, 2009

Dear Friend,

Consider these life-changing moments as recorded in Scripture:

God called to Abraham saying, “Abraham” and he replied, “Here I am, Lord.” Genesis 22:1

An angel spoke to “Jacob” in a dream, “Jacob” and he replied, “Here I am, Lord.” Genesis 31:11

From a burning bush God called “Moses” and he replied, “Here I am, Lord.” Exodus 3:4

God asked of Isaiah, “Whom shall I send?” he replied, “Here I am, send me, Lord!” Isaiah 6:8

In every case the person whom God called simply replied with the Hebrew word hinnainee (hin-nay-knee), the word of the servant – which means “here I am” – available – ready to serve – what may I do for you?

Our Lord has something he wants to do through you. It may be delightful. It may be difficult. When God calls you to a task, whether through your Bible study or as the Spirit who speaks to your heart, or through a family member or a person with whom you work or play, reply in your heart hinnainee and do what is asked of you with a warm spirit and the will to serve.

After the angel Gabriel told Mary she would bear Jesus, the son of God, she replied, “Here I am, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Luke 1:38* May her response be our response to the opportunities to serve!

With joy - E. Stanley Ott
Copyright 2009 E. Stanley Ott
*Scripture from the NRSV