January 10, 2025 - Genesis 23-25

Today’s reading reminds of the inevitable passing of time:  Sarah lived 127 years and died --> Abraham grew old --> Searching for a wife for Isaac among Abraham’s kindred --> The marriage of Isaac and Rebekah --> Abraham’s remarriage and other children --> Abraham’s death --> The birth of Esau and Jacob and Jacob’s deception and taking of Esau’s birthright.  Days grow into days, weeks into weeks, months into months, years into years, centuries into centuries, and millennia into millennia.  If I might use a theme from Disney’s “Lion King,” it’s all about “the circle of life.”  All participate in this adventure we call “life.”  What makes our adventure so joyful is that we know the One who directs our every step and works good for us.  We might reflect on Jeremiah’s letter to the exiles and God’s promise to them:  “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).  And what about Paul’s assurance:  “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).  Isn’t it good to know, as we participate in “the circle of life,” that our God walks with us and keeps us!

God moves in a mysterious way,

His wonders to perform.

He plants his footsteps in the sea

And rides upon the storm.

Deep in the dark and hidden mines,

With never-failing skill,

He fashions all his bright designs

And works his sov’reign will.

So God we trust in you.

O God, we trust in you.

When tears are great and comforts few,

We hope in mercies ever new,

We trust in you.   --William Cowper (1774)