The Daily Office for January 26, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 50, 59
Genesis 16:15-17:14
Hebrews 10:1-10
John 5:30-47
Reading (Genesis 16:15-17:14)
Reflection
The practice of circumcision was widely observed in Abraham’s time. In its original significance it may have been a kind of religious acknowledgment associated with the powers of human reproduction, but more commonly it seems to have served as a tribal mark; and it is likely that it was in this capacity that God made use of it.
For Abraham’s family it was to be regarded as a token of God's covenant. This is one of many instances of God’s method of appropriating an already existing practice and dedicating it to His own purpose. Circumcision became a touchstone of later Judaism. It is important not to overlook the difference between the old covenant and the new. Old covenant blessings came by physical descent, of which circumcision was the sign; new covenant blessings are spiritually conveyed and are expressed by a new sign, one that is written in our hearts and lives.
Collect for the Day
Heavenly Father, who sent your apostle Paul to preach the gospel, and gave him Timothy and Titus to be his companions in faith: grant that our fellowship in the Holy Spirit may bear witness to the name of Jesus, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.