Benjamin was the baby of Jacob’s family and full brother to Joseph. I always remember that those boys were both born of Jacob’s favorite wife, Rachel. Jacob’s love and devotion to her was always a precious part of that story for me. It was a sad day when Rachel died young, leaving her young sons to be brought up by another.
While Joseph was Jacob’s favorite, it was Benjamin that Joseph thought of when he reunited with his brothers in Egypt all those years later. While Benjamin’s portion is smaller than some of the other brothers, it has Jerusalem which has such a rich history of faith.
I did consult a commentary today and learned that Benjamin’s portion is divided into two parts. The eastern section is bordered by the Jordan River and consists of twelve towns. The western has fourteen towns. Many of these towns go on to be sites of other Biblical accounts. Most have been renamed to something else today. Still others are still not accounted for at all.
Archaeology in this area of is fascinating. We recently watched a great documentary that involved taking us into areas currently being excavated. Since I was in the 5th grade, I have always had an interest in digging up history in this way. When seeing what is being uncovered in Israel, I feel like I am seeing my own history being revealed.
It’s on my bucket list to spend time on an archaeology dig before my time on earth is done. To hold something in my hands that was used hundreds or thousands of years ago would be powerful for me. Even today, David showed me an article he was reading of a chariot they found incapsulated in volcanic ash near the ancient city of Pompeii in Italy. Simply fascinating! I have been busy googling that ever since.
So how is this text speaking to you today? Maybe you know someone named Ben. Say a prayer for him. If I had had another son, Ben was at the top of my list. I love the name Benjamin. I love seeing God’s plan playing out as the clans step forward to claim their inheritance.
Let’s pray … Lord, I thank you for the dreams you have put inside me. I love watching how each day of the life you’ve given me unfolds. Help me to take time to just relish your presence in all areas of my life. Refresh me today and speak loudly to my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
