Genesis 45:25 So they went up out of Egypt and came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan.
What jumped out at me as I read today’s scripture is the fact that the father of this crew is called Jacob in verses 25-27 but Israel in verse 28. That seemed rather odd, though it’s happened more than once since he was renamed Israel back in chapter 32 after wrestling with an angel (or God, depending on the interpretation).
Genesis 45:26 They told him, “Joseph is still alive! In fact, he is ruler of all Egypt.” Jacob was stunned; he did not believe them.
Commentary posits that he is called Jacob when his fleshly humanity is coming through, when he’s whiny or doubtful, yet when he shows up in faith, he is called Israel in scripture. That means that there was no “one and done” conversion, the fight that gave him his new name didn’t fundamentally change his personality. The fleshly side was still there and still showed itself at times.
Genesis 45:27 But when they told him everything Joseph had said to them, and when he saw the carts Joseph had sent to carry him back, the spirit of their father Jacob revived.
Precious Savior, Thank You for showing me again and again that You do not need us to be perfect to use us in Your kingdom work. None of these characters, even those given a new name by You, are perfect, have totally conquered their humanity, and yet You are able to use them in mighty ways. Thank You for this reminder, Lord. Amen.
Genesis 45:28 And Israel said, “I’m convinced! My son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”
Have a blessed day.