The central issue in this discussion between Jesus and another group of Jews is, "Who is a rightful child of God?" The group of Jews, of course would answer, "we are, through our birth as Abraham's children." Jesus takes this opportunity to shift their thinking. In verse 39 Jesus states that a child of Abraham would not merely rely on their physical heritage through birth, but would do the things that Abraham did. In short, a child of God is obedient to the voice of God.

Certainly the story of Abraham flashed through the minds of those Jews as Jesus challenged them. Abraham listened to the voice of God and moved to a new land prepared by God, even though Abraham did not know where he was heading. Abraham listened, and fathered Isaac, the child of the promise. Abraham listened, and obediently trudged up the cold Mount Moriah to offer this promised son in sacrifice to God. Abraham listened at his moment of supreme crisis and his hand was stopped by an angel, and his son's life was spared. Abraham listened, and the special relationship between his family and God was affirmed and established.

Jesus challenged the legitimacy of these Jews because of their disobedience. They were unwilling to hear the word of God. They were unwilling to accept the One that was sent directly from God. Finally, they even sought to kill the One that was uniquely sent by God. Abraham did not do such things, (v. 41) Abraham listened. Now the promised Son was on Earth, would these men listen or try to kill Him?

In this season of sacrifice and renewal, this passage confronts us with questions. Have we accepted the One sent to Earth, God's Son? Are we willing to listen and obey the voice of God in every area of our life? Are we willing to sacrifice those things that are near and dear to us? Finally, are we ready to live in close relationship to the One who redeemed us? Let us decide this year again to accept the One who came for us, and live in such obedience that we will be considered the rightful, legitimate children of God.

Loving Heavenly Father, we are thankful Your Son came to Earth to redeem us. In this Lenten season may we reflect on His obedient life and redeeming sacrifice. Help us to live our lives in obedience with a thankful heart, and may we enjoy the relationship and abundant life that your Son came to give us.
Thank you Lord, for considering us as a part of your family.