The reading for Sunday, January 8, 2023 , is Genesis 24 - 28
Today's reading: Genesis 24 - 28
Isaac & Rebekah, Abraham's Death & his Family Lines, Jacob & Esau, Jacob's Dream at Bethel
Abraham sends his lead servant (Is this Eliezer of Damascus who would inherit Abraham's estate if Abraham had no sons? A quick google says that it probably is the same person.) to get a wife for Isaac. Today, as I read this, I see it as an arranged marriage. It's not that Bethuel knew of it, but that it was the custom, so Abraham sent Eliezer to go and see about it. He takes the dowry with him. I also note that Rebekah is asked if she will go. It's not just someone else's decision.
As I read the story of Eliezer and Rebekah, I am once again reminded of Jesus with the Woman at the Well. That story is clearly on my mind lately for some reason. Rebekah draws all the water Eliezer and his camels need.
As I read about Rebekah's pregnancy, I noted that Isaac prayed for her. During pregnancy, Rebekah went to inquire of the Lord. Was Rebekah not able to pray for herself? Was Issac's prayer in addition to Rebekah's unmentioned prayers? I am struck that it doesn't say that Rebekah prayed, but it mentions that she went to inquire of the Lord.
When Isaac gives Jacob the blessing mean for Esau, Jacob claims to be Esau multiple times. That would make me feel so guilty. Isaac suspects that he's being lied to, but he can't prove it and gives Jacob the blessing intended for Esau. Esau learns about this and wants to kill Jacob. Rebekah schemes to get Jacob sent away to find a wife. The next time we see Isaac and Jacob together, Isaac is blessing Jacob again!! Huh?
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