Daily Bread for Jan 8, Gen 25-26

Today's readings are Gen 25-26.

In Gen 25, after Sarah dies, Abraham takes a concubine and continues to produce offspring, though none are as favored as Isaac, who is blessed by God after Abraham dies (Gen 25:11). Like Sarah, Isaac's wife, Rebekah, is barren. Isaac prays for his wife, and she conceives. So we see that Isaac is another type of advocate/arbiter as his father was. God always provides someone to stand in for His people, someone He will listen to and use as a blessing at times and as one who convicts at others. This is another pattern we will see as the biblical narrative develops; there is always an arbiter, someone who will pray for and represent God’s people. These arbiters (also known as mediators) that we see in the Old Testament are imperfect representations of the One to come. They teach us how God relates to His chosen people.

Rebekah has twins, Esau and Jacob. The way they're born is a harbinger of the path their lives will take. Jacob, although he is second, strives against Esau, holding on to his heel (Gen 25:26). Esau grows into a hardy and seasoned hunter; Jacob seems to be somewhat of a momma's boy, staying at home and learning to cook. Esau foolishly gives up his birthright for a bowl of Jacob's stew. This embitters Esau and will become a problem later (Gen 25:29-34).

The incident with the stew and Esau’s reaction shows us something about the character and nature of both boys that will become increasingly evident as their story develops. Jacob seems to be devious and manipulative. Esau seems to be impulsive and perhaps a bit reckless, not to mention volatile and independent.

Meanwhile, as God promised, Ishmael, Isaac's brother, becomes the father of twelve sons. The beginnings of what will become nations are rising up out of Abraham's two sons. Ishmael settles in Havilah and Shur. Isaac is in Gerar.