When God called Abraham and Sarah into a covenant relationship a significant part of the promise what that they would become a blessing to the nations (Genesis 12:1-3). Now as we approach the end of the Genesis account we find the promise being carried out. “Then Joseph brought in his father Jacob, and presented him before Pharaoh, and Jacob blessed Pharaoh.…Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from the presence of Pharaoh” (Genesis 47:7, 10). You would expect that the ruler of a great a civilization like Pharaoh would be the one dispensing the blessings, but in keeping with God’s word to his ancestor, Jacob is the one blessing the king.
We should not overlook the significance of this event. Jacob, a man of faith, has offered a benediction to one outside of his tradition. Jacob has essentially shared the love of God with Pharaoh. As people of faith we, too, have the opportunity to live as a blessing to the nations and to offer grace and benediction to those around us. Even when we feel weak or insignificant, when we ourselves are wrestling with weighty issues, when we feel displaced or set upon, we may reflect the love of God. This was the call to discipleship that Jesus issued over and over again. To follow Jesus is to seek the wellbeing of the world and to work for the coming kingdom. When confronted by evil Jesus offered a different path; with illness, healing; with brokenness, reconciliation. Jesus himself was a benediction to the world, God’s Word of grace, and as the body of Christ at work in the world we are challenged to be the same.
Prayer: Lord, may we be a blessing to the world and in sharing your love may we offer a light in the darkness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment