Abraham and Sarah

I. Abraham and Sarah * Abraham’s first name was Abram. * Sarah’s first name was Sarai -Abraham means “ancestor of nations” and Sarah means “princess.” * they were nomadic shepherds.

A. Our Ancestors in faith because they were the first to respond God’s call. -They left Heron and traveled to Shechem. * They settled in Canaan.

B. God’s revelation to them forever changed their lives and the lives of their descendants. 1. they remained faithful despite their obstacles. 2. their faith is a model for Christians, Jews, and Muslims throughout the world.

C. God answered Abraham and Sarah by making them the parents of Isaac and later the nation of Israel. -the birth was not only a gift in itself but a sign of the special relationship God formed with Abraham and Sarah.

D. The following of God’s call was the beginning of God’s loving relationship with the people, He called “My People”-Hebrews. E. Abraham is a patriarch, or father of the Jewish people, our Father in faith, all who believe in God’s mercy and love. *all these people can be called children of Abraham.

II. Mary Says Yes

A. Without Mary’s faith, God’s promise to Abraham could not have come true. - Mary had faith in God and trusted His word.

III. Our Church Teaches

A. Catholics believe in Revelation. 1. God Makes Himself known through Jesus. B. We know about God through: 1. scripture 2. by living our faith through the Church.

C. We speak to God in prayer. D. We see God in: 1. creation 2. sacraments

3. Liturgy 4. Good Works

E. Examples of “Obedience in Faith” 1. Abraham and Sarah obeyed God’s will completely. 2. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, trusted God’s promise.