Genesis 46:9-10 The sons of Reuben: Hanok, Pallu, Hezron and Karmi. The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar and Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman.
I know I have mentioned before that these lists of genealogies make my eyes gloss over. My sister loves the challenge of a genealogic treasure hunt. I do not. But there is some reason that we have interjected here so many verses of genealogy. What does God want us to notice?
Genesis 46:11-12 The sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath and Merari. The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez and Zerah (but Er and Onan had died in the land of Canaan). The sons of Perez: Hezron and Hamul.
Commentary says this list is important here to show that Israel is all in, that he is moving everyone–the entire family–to Egypt in accordance with God’s will. We know he’s afraid (remember all the Jacobs in yesterday’s scripture?), but he is acting in faith anyway, and moving his entire family shows his great faith, even in his fear.
Genesis 46:13 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puah, a Jashub b and Shimron.
Precious Savior, Thank You for the reminder that we can act in faith even when we are afraid. Thank You for the reminder that our actions of faith affect more than just ourselves. Help us to be bold and brave for You, even when we struggle with fear. Help us, Jesus. Amen.
Genesis 46:14 The sons of Zebulun: Sered, Elon and Jahleel.
Have a blessed day.