S – Abraham bowed down to the people of the land ¹³ and said to Ephron in the hearing of the people of the land, “Listen to me, if you please. Let me pay the price of the field. Accept it from me, and let me bury my dead there.” 

Genesis 23:12–13 CSB

O – Commentary:

In this cave was buried not only Sarah but also Abraham (25:9), Isaac and his wife Rebekah, and Jacob and Leah (49:29–31; 50:13).

The point of this event was to ensure that the cave and field would be Abraham’s possession. He was not presumptuous. In faith he bought the land, taking nothing from these people (cf. 14:21–24). It was important then where people buried their dead; burial was to be done in their native land. Thus there was no going back. Though Abraham was an alien and a stranger among the people (23:4), his hope was in the land.

“Genesis,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – Abraham is demonstrating more faith in God’s promise of where his descendents would dwell by purchasing the land.  Even though it was possessed by others, he wanted to be buried where his future would dwell and die.  That is amazing faith to believe so deeply that he committed his burial location to it.

R – Heavenly Father, you are powerful and merciful.  Empower us in our faith to see beyond today and to act accordingly.  Thank you for your love and grace that allows us to do this.