In his General Audience, the pope asked Catholics to follow the example of Abraham, 'our father in faith.â?
Abrahamâ??s blind trust in God led him to leave his home for a new land, under the promise that he would have a son. Godâ??s promise was long delayed and seemed to be impossible, but 'even his complaints and discouragement were a sign of his continuing trust in God.â?
The pope said that Abraham teaches us that 'trust in Godâ??s word does not mean that we will not have moments of uncertainty, disappointment and bewilderment.â?
SUMMARY OF THE POPEâ??S CATECHESIS
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
Our continuing catechesis on Christian hope leads us in these Christmas days to consider the example of Abraham, who, as Saint Paul tells us, 'hoped against hopeâ? in Godâ??s promises.
Trusting in the Lordâ??s word that a son would be born to him, Abraham left his home for a new land. Although the fulfilment of Godâ??s promise was long delayed and seemed to be impossible, Abraham continued to hope. Even his discouragement and complaints were a sign of his continuing trust in God.
Abraham, our father in faith, shows us that sure trust in Godâ??s word does not mean that we will not have moments of uncertainty, disappointment and bewilderment.
It was at such a moment that God appeared to Abraham, called him forth from his tent and showed him the night sky shining with countless stars, assuring him that such would be the number of his descendents.
Hope is always directed to the future, to the fulfilment of Godâ??s promises. May the example of Abraham teach us not be afraid to go out from our own tents, our limited outlooks, and to lift our eyes to the stars.
I greet the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in todayâ??s Audience, particularly those from Bangladesh and the United States of America. May each of you, and your families, cherish the joy of Christmas and draw near in prayer to the Saviour who has come to dwell among us. God bless you!
