Genesis 25:24-25 When the time came for her to give birth, there were twin boys in her womb. The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment; so they named him Esau.
Once again, I am scratching my head a bit at a “key Biblical figure.” I’m familiar with Bible stories, of course. I’ve heard the stories of Esau and Jacob. But somehow I always forget the bit about Jacob’s cunning and trickery. Those don’t seem like key descriptors for an important Biblical patriarch to me.
Genesis 25:26 After this, his brother came out, with his hand grasping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when Rebekah gave birth to them.
How is it that I keep forgetting how incredibly human and fallible and messy are these folks that God keeps using, and uses mightily for His work? Is it because when I originally learned about them as a youth, I was told (or told myself?) that God only uses those who are perfect? No way he could use me with all my flaws?
Genesis 25:27 The boys grew up, and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country, while Jacob was content to stay at home among the tents.
Precious Savior, Thank You for reminding me that Your Son is the only perfect one among humans. The rest of us are varying degrees of hot mess. And yet, You can and will and do use us, even in our messiness, but only if we allow. Help me to get out of Your way, to allow You to use me as Your hands and feet in this world that so desperately needs You. Help me, Jesus. Amen.
Genesis 25:28 Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.
Have a blessed day.