July 3, 2020

​Daily Lectionary Readings for Year A

Let's focus on Genesis 27:1-17 today.  Isaac is an old man.  He can no longer see and knows he will die soon.  Isaac calls Esau over and tells him that he will give him his blessing.  This means that the father, Isaac, will give his oldest son Esau his inheritance.  But first, Isaac tells Esau to go out hunting, for that is what Esau loved to do.  Meanwhile, Rebeccah overhears Isaac's plan.  She had hoped that Jacob would be the one who would receive Isaac's blessing, even though he was the second of the twins to be born.  So, they devise a plan.  Rebeccah would cover Jacob's arm with hair so that blind Isaac would be fooled into thinking Jacob was Esau.  And, Jacob would steal Esau's blessing.  

Maybe this is part of the beauty of God's story in the Bible.  It is not always neat and tidy.  We find characters with blemishes, actions that are suspect, and storylines that make us blush.  In other words, we can often relate to both the good and the bad in the Bible.  This can cause us to take a fresh look at God and our own life decisions.  What can we learn when we witness the imperfect people in the Bible and therein see our own reflection?

So, take some time today to consider when you have tricked someone in order to gain an advantage.  When did you take something that belonged to another?  What caused you to try to cut in line and benefit at the expense of others?  Be honest.  Think about whether you are carrying around guilt or regret.  In what ways can you relate with Jacob?

Peace,
Dean