Circumcision

     God gave us rules to protect us.  He banished people from the perfect paradise of Eden because He could not allow sin to live there or it would corrupt and destroy everything.  In the world we are vulnerable.  We can hurt ourselves and others so easily, so God created boundaries to help us.  He will not force obedience. 
     We do have free will, but our lives are so much better when we do.  When we disobey, there are consequences.  There are always consequences, but they are usually positive or beneficial when you do the right thing.  People don't seem to notice what is given as often as what is taken.
     Abram was 99 when God reconstructed the covenant with him.  To confirm this one about living blameless, Abrams name was changed to Abraham.  Choosing to live blameless leads to being fruitful, or at least it did for Abraham.  It was sealed with Circumcision.  Every male born was to be circumcised eight days later.  If a person refused, then they would be cut off, banished, from everyone they knew.  That day, Abraham circumcised every male in the household.  This included the servants.
     Sarai became Sarah to indicate that she is mother of nations.  Her son would be Isaac.  This was hard to believe.  They were both close to 100 and now they were going to start their family.  Ishmael would become father to 12 rulers and become a great nation because Abraham wanted him blessed too.  However, Ishmael's nation and the Israelite nation would never get along. 
     Today, physical circumcision is a good thing for health and hygiene.  However, the point of it is often missed.  God did make this covenant for health, but it is more.  If you are not willing to take care of yourself, then how can you give everything to Him?  He wants your heart.  He wants you willing to cut out anything that keeps you away from Him.  That is the point.

Genesis 17