We went hunting for elephant
We saw such a cute bunny
We thought it was so funny
And chased it around a bit
When we got back on track
The hunt was over!

I can’t seem to learn enough from Abraham’s admirable life of faith. Once a wanderer, God established him a prosperous and respected leader. He saw the Almighty at work in their walk; miraculous provision of a son to a couple whom the world has written off as too old, a lamb out of nowhere for sacrifice that spared his only son. Abraham knew God who gave them Isaac, spared his life and watched him grow into manhood has a plan and will provide a wife that is family. (Genesis 24)

Eliezer worked closely with Abraham and is a living witness of all that God accomplished through his master. Abraham trusted Eliezer with the responsibility of finding a wife for Isaac from among his people. That’s a tough task but on his own, Eliezer turned to the God he watched Abraham lean upon through life’s journeys. Eliezer prayed and God, who is no respecter of persons answered immediately. So stumped, he stared in wonder, at how quick and accurate God answers sincere prayers. It was too good, too real and too fast to take in so he stood there; silent, in wonder, gauging to confirm that this is truly God at work, not some random coincidence.

When it finally dawned, Eliezer bowed and worshipped. He recognized that God had used him, being the point of contact for Abraham, to do for Abraham, no less than He would have done had Abraham come personally on this quest. What a lesson for us all who think that God hears only the prayers of some privileged persons! God hears everyone, everywhere, every time.

Usually, we assume and conclude too soon. We forget so quickly when we see what appears as answers especially after we’ve waited for so long. But not Eliezer: still in wonder of what God had done, he wasn’t jumping to conclusions yet and celebrating anything until it was clearly and mutually settled. Even with all the food and drinks served, Eliezer didn’t mix business with pleasure. He settled the business first, then they enjoyed what was served. He wasn’t carried away by the wonders God displayed, the speed and accuracy of the miracles or by the merriment of the moment. He wasn’t resting until he delivered fully on his mission for his master.

First thing the next morning while many would be sleeping off their hangover from previous night’s celebration, Eliezer and his men were up and ready to take home the bride to his groom. Some of us celebrate too much, too soon we get carried away and miss the delivery of something that started out so miraculous. The mission isn’t done by getting the message across, experiencing the wonders that go with it and handling the tangible blessings that could seem as reward for our journey of faith. It’s not done until we are home to hear the Master say, “Welcome home you good and faithful servant.” If you are not focused and determined, you’ll be swayed. If you’re swayed, you’ll be delayed. If you’re delayed, you may lose something so precious despite the miraculous demonstration of God’s power. As you pursue God and His will, don’t be tripped by appetizers and miss the main dish. Stay focused until the Master says, “It is done!”

Glory!