I’m baffled by the notion that Esau would give up all the rights and privileges that come along with being the firstborn, especially in the era in which he did so. For what? Bean stew? That makes no sense at all to me. Do you agree?
I know he was hungry but just how bad could it have been? If Jacob refused to feed me and I’m his older brother, I would just put him in a headlock until he gives in, or better yet just take it and settle up after dinner. But to sacrifice his birthright, that’s crazy.
Then – as if that’s not bad enough – Jacob deceives their father Isaac, with the help of his mother, into blessing him as the most favored son. Talk about a dysfunctional household. You think yours is bad.
But here’s the conclusion I’ve come to. God loves us in all our dysfunction and there’s no way to surprise him, good or bad. His love is unconditional. He can build nations and chosen people through our bizarre behaviors. He did that through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He’ll do the same through us.
Don’t be discouraged if you make a wrong turn. Repent and give God the glory, no matter where you land in the process.
His love covers it all.
And that’s the Memo.
Steve
Scripture Reading: Genesis 25:29-34
“Once when Jacob was cooking stew, Esau came in from the field, and he was exhausted. And Esau said to Jacob, “Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am exhausted!” (Therefore, his name was called Edom.) Jacob said, “Sell me your birthright now.” Esau said, “I am about to die; of what use is a birthright to me?” Jacob said, “Swear to me now.” So he swore to him and sold his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau bread and lentil stew, and he ate and drank and rose and went his way. Thus, Esau despised his birthright.” (ESV)
