Abraham has lived a full life. Isn’t that what we all aspire to as well? But 175 years is a little longer than most of us will ever see. Were you surprised when he married again after his beloved Sarah passed away? And he gave Isaac and Ishmael more siblings. (I can’t tell from their names or the text if they were brothers or sisters or both.) Despite Abraham’s fruitfulness, as God had proclaimed, the heir of significance was Isaac, Sarah’s only son.
What a fitting tribute to have the sons come together to arrange for Abraham’s burial. I like how there is no animosity between Isaac and Ishmael. Abraham had taken good care of all of this children, but he left it “all” for Isaac. I wonder if Isaac felt entitled, pressured to succeed, grateful, overwhelmed, or prideful.
Certainly, saddened that his father had passed on now, too. But Isaac has a wife, Rebekah.While she is not mentioned in this passage, she was likely a great support to Isaac in his grief. Abraham would have been her great uncle, as well as her father-in-law, and over the years she would have become fond of him. He was a man of great honor and integrity.
The father of nations. This passage is full of more genealogy and explanation of the origins of nations and peoples. It is a close of an era. Abraham’s legacy was born and will now be fulfilled. As we look back on the life of Abraham, we see a man of great faith and obedience. That is a great model for us to follow in our own lives.
You know that I love music and lyrics speak to me all the time. I heard a new song from Casting Crowns, and it’s beautiful. Are you needing to rededicate yourself to God? Are you feeling a little far away from him? These lyrics should help us open up our hearts and our lives to be ready for him to work through us. Listen to Here’s My Heart HERE.
Let’s pray. Lord, here’s my heart, I am listening for you. I want what you want for me. I know it is so much greater than I could ever imagine. I am yours, Lord, and my heart overflows with gratefulness. You have given me another day to be a witness for you. Open my mouth and let your truth be spoken. Thank you for your strength. I claim it today and trust you for the rest. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
