What will the neighbors say?

Read Genesis 23.

Is there anything harder and more stressful in life than losing one's spouse?  Sarah died at 127.  Now, this 137 year old widower must bury his wife and move on with his life, facing the pain of loss, the agony of transition, and an inexperienced level loneliness. 

Times of suffering are God's opportunities to demonstrate His grace and comfort to those who love Him.  And, those around get to witness firsthand the difference faith in Jesus truly makes.  The unspoken question unbelievers are asking is, "Does such faith make any difference?"

In planning the funeral, Abraham turned to his neighbors for an appropriate burial site.  Do not miss their response to him in verse 6.  "You are a prince of God among us."

His neighbors recognized at least three things about Abraham in that one statement:
1. He was not the king, but he was part of a royal family.
2. He was a respected leader in the neighborhood (a prince of a guy).
3. He was part of the family of God.

I wonder what my neighbors think of me.  When facing difficult times of life, what would their response be to me?  Would they see God's grace and comfort?  Would they witness the difference Christ is making in my life?  Would they want the faith that I have?