My apologies. I drafted yesterday's post. It did not get "published" until today.
Like the disciples in Matthew, it is so hard for us to rely on God's grace. We struggle to believe that God does provide for our needs. Not because bread falls out of the sky, but because answers and solutions are presented---often through those around us. Like the disciples, often we have to open our eyes and ears to hear the answers that are around us instead of insisting that the only way forward is what is already in our minds. We often hang on so strongly to our understanding, our perceived solution, that we fail to hear and see the solution and plan that is floating right in front of us.
There is a pivotal point in Chapter 16: they are turning toward Jerusalem. Moving toward the crucifixion. We move from healing and miracles to understanding what discipleship means, and what it costs. Jesus took humanity's brokenness with him on that cross. If we want to be followers of Jesus, we too must recognize that we bear humanity's brokenness on our shoulders. Like Judah in yesterday's story of Joseph in Genesis, are we willing to give ourselves---what we have and who we are---for the good of others? The restoration and redemption of Creation comes through sacrifice.
In Genesis 48, again we have the younger who will be greater than the older--an echo of Jacob and Esau. One thing we notice in Scripture, when we read it like this in larger sections and in entirety, is that these stories and truths echo over and over. Just like when God tells Israel: do not be afraid. God is always telling God's people: Do not fear; take heart; do not be afraid. I am with you.
Let us live today like we believe it.
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