During the weeks of Advent, we’re going to take a look at some of the stories of Jesus’ ancestors — those names that are usually glossed over in the “begats.” Today: Isaac.
Today’s scripture: Matthew 1:1-2, Genesis 22:1-14 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Ben Lamb):
When this passage is mentioned, the focus always seems to be on Abraham and his obedience to God. Yes, Abraham certainly demonstrated his faith that “God will provide. . . ,” but it seems to me that the other person in the story — Isaac — showed just as much faith, but in other ways.
Let me also mention here that I am very fond of the literally technique of foreshadowing. Wikipedia defines it as “a literary device in which an author drops subtle hints about plot developments to come later in the story.” These 14 verses are chock full of similarities of Jesus’ earthly life which will occur centuries later.
Let’s try to find the similarities. Read the following six sentences. Then go back, and in place of “Isaac”, insert the name “Jesus”. You’ll find that they read just as well.
- Isaac goes on a journey in life whose destination is known, but the exact route in getting there is not completely mapped out ahead of time.
- Isaac knows God is leading him all the way on the journey no matter what happens.
- Isaac has to carry a heavy load.
- Isaac has to travel a long way and surely has some questions as to what lies ahead in the not-yet-experienced future.
- Isaac calls out to the most powerful being he has ever known.
- Isaac is aware of a promise made from God: “God himself will provide the lamb.” [Note that another name for Jesus is “Lamb of God.”]
Now, go back and re-read those sentences, and insert your own name and gender pronoun in place of “Isaac” and “he.” Don’t they read true again for you if you’re sure you’re a follower of Christ, in spite of the trials and hardships you may be experiencing now?
I’ve saved the best similarity for last. It applies to Christians and non-Christians alike:
- A lamb died in the place of Isaac.
A Lamb (Jesus) died in the place of you and me. He was the same Jesus who was born as a baby more than 2,000 years ago, that we both remember and look forward to in this Advent season..
Thought for the day: God, thank you for supplying beautiful hints for centuries about the glorious gift that you would one day give to the world.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.