The first 11 chapters of the Bible – unfold the story of the downfall of humans – who choose self-rule as opposed to trusting their Creator. This rejection of God breaks down their relationship with God and others. It is a downward spiral into darkness and devastation living apart from the presence of God – outside of the Garden. Then in Genesis ch 12, things take a turn – God calls out a man – Abraham (his name was Abram at first) –and in grace, God makes a promise to bless him; and not Abraham alone, but through one of his offspring, all the nations of the world would be blessed. What a gracious God! In spite of man’s rejection of God – God has not rejected us.