Genesis. As I read of Abraham's death, then of Ishmael's lineage, a part of verse 18 jumped out at me: "There they lived in open hostility toward all their relatives." Ancient Ishmaelites are modern-day Arabs. Everything I read about their world contains the strife that is constant among them. The only thing that seems to unite them is their despite for Israel.
Notice how quick Esau was to give up his birthright. Before you criticize him, think about how much we give up as followers of Christ when we choose to give our hearts to the things of this world. Our hearts are quickly empty and we throw away our birthright as His children.
In chapter 26, Isaac picked up a very bad habit from his dad. Then notice how the growth of the population started numerous conflicts over who got to live where. The ancient Philistines and the modern Palestinians...same people! Notice the tribal conflict and how a covenant changes the situation. The covenant meal was in important part of the process. It indicated a brotherhood between the former enemies. To understand covenant meal, think Passover. Then think of the Last Supper.
What speaks to you today?
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