Parashat Vayera
In this week’s portion we see elements of God’s rescue mission for humanity. Abraham’s intercession for Sodom reveals a crucial principle: the righteousness of a few can impact many. This pattern builds throughout Scripture, from Noah’s righteousness affecting his family to Moses’ intercession for Israel, ultimately culminating in Yeshua’s righteousness that merits salvation for the entire world. When Lot was rescued from Sodom’s destruction, it was through God’s mercy acting based on Abraham’s favor, not Lot’s own righteousness alone.
The binding of Isaac on Mount Moriah represents the climax of faith, where both father and son walked together in complete unity of purpose. Isaac’s willing submission as a 37-year-old man parallels Yeshua’s selfless giving of himself.
When God provided a ram as substitute for Isaac, Abraham named the place ‘The Lord will be seen,’ pointing to Jerusalem where God would ultimately be revealed through His son. This rescue mission continues today through Yeshua, calling believers to abide in His righteousness and walk in bold faithfulness.