My bet is you haven’t heard this chapter read in worship. Too many names of foreign kings and lands. Too much obscure geography. I find myself wondering what’s so “scriptural” about this scripture. Perhaps you do too.
One thought that occurs to me is that this account of warring tribes and shifting loyalties is a reminder that geopolitics haven’t changed much, and that an overly simplistic “us vs. them” worldview just doesn’t work in the face of complexity—in ancient times or today.
Is there, then, a very practical message for us in that complexity? Perhaps. Notice Abram’s actions and words, as he steps very cautiously into the mayhem of the Middle East. First, he gets involved only when his own nephew becomes a spoil of war. There’s no preemptive meddling here, only responsive engagement. What is more, once he secures Lot’s safety, Abram retreats. His aim is not to conquer more territory but to protect his kin. Abram’s assault on Lot’s captors, then, provides an early glimpse of what later theologians would call “just war.” (My world religions students might tell you that Abram observes the restraints prescribed in Sikhism as well.)
But it’s Melchizedek (whose name means “messenger of righteousness”) who rocks our “us vs. them” religious worldview. As king of another people and priest of their god, Melchizedek pronounces a blessing on Abram, just as the Qur’an affirms the righteousness of all “people of the book.” And perhaps even more stunningly, Abram responds by offering a tithe to Melchizedek’s god. Could Abram be our first biblical pluralist? What do you think?
- What causes you to step into conflict? When do you stay on the sidelines?
- In what settings do you tend to adopt an “us vs. them” worldview? How does that worldview affect you or others?
- What other details did you notice in today’s reading?
Prayer: O God, thank you that, like Abram, we live alongside those who differ from us. Teach us his way that somehow combines our passion for justice with a humble, generous spirit. Amen.
Breath Prayer: I promised // the Lord.
