Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Day 17 (Genesis 33,34: Psalm 34)..."Much to do About Nothing"
Jacob spends the better part of 20 years of his life in fear of Esau. He knows one day he will have to face up to him. When the suspenseful moment comes a "Prodigal Son" type celebration reunion takes place. Jacob prepares gifts and Essau is quick to embrace. Jacob's fear of Esau is "much to do about nothing." Is this not true of so much in our lives? We live in fear of facing people, situations, and find the "fear" is worse than the moment. Joseph is at the back of the line in this story. In the coming chapters, he will be live out yet another story of "grand reunion." This will be yet another theme of Genesis reconciliation/reunion. Isn't this just like God to be creator, the giver of relationships, and offers the grace for grand reunions!
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As a children's Sunday School teacher I did not like teaching about Esau because the lesson always focused on his hairy character. As an adult, I am really liking this sensitive man. He so wants to be a part of his family by seeking his father's blessing and birth right. He grew up knowing his mother loved his brother more. Then, surprise, he embraces the one that has cause him so much grief.
ReplyDeleteWe can learn much about loving others through Esau's forgive and forget approach to family.
I think Jacob is blessed to have family that forgives and moves on. We should practice loving our family instead of holding grudges and jealousies.