IMITATE THEIR FAITH/SARAH

THEY "WENT OUT OF THE LAND"

As Sarah packed her things, she faced the dilemma of what to keep and what to leave behind. She could keep no item that was too big for a caravan of donkeys and camels to carry, nothing that would be impractical in a nomadic life.  No doubt many of their possessions would have to be sold or given away. Gone, too, would be the conveniences of city living-the ready access to markets or bazaars where she could shop for grain, meats, fruit, clothing, and other necessities and comforts. 

Perhaps it was harder still for Sarah to give up her home itself. If it was like many of the houses that archaeologists have uncovered in Ur, Sarah faced the loss of some very real comforts.  Some of those houses had over a dozen rooms, as well as freshwater fountains and plumbing. Even a humble house might offer a solid roof, wall, and a door that could be bolted shut. Could a tent offer similar protection against thieves?  Or against lions, leopards, or bears, and wolves-all of which were common in the Bible lands at those times?

And what of family? Whom would Sarah be leaving behind?  God's command to "go out from your land and from your relatives" may have especially challenging for  her.  A warm, affectionate woman, she may well have had brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, and aunts and uncles to whom she was very attached and whom she  might never see again. Yet, Sarah bravely went forward, day by day, getting ready for departure.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/SARAH - THEY "WENT OUT OF THE LAND"

From the jw.org publications