Reading from Genesis 17:1-27 (NLT) ~The Birth of Ishmael~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  Abraham laughing to himself in disbelief, Zachariah lost his ability to speak. Abraham being left with a choice to continue to walk in faith or decide for himself. The reassurance and encouragement in God’s correction. Why confirm the covenant now? The private mark of the covenant, what is seen is how we live and treat others. Colossians 2:11, the spiritual circumcision.