Genesis 27, Matthew 18

Wednesday, Jan 2, 2008 - Brandon Hatmaker (Genesis 27, Matthew 18)

(Genesis 27)

Chapter 27 makes me more curious, and a bit enamored with the ideology of God’s perfect verses His permissive will. I guess anytime I read about when His ends are met with our “messed up” means it increases my amazement. We certainly make decisions each day that can either be something that honors God or does not. You would think that with so many variables and decisions, any plan could easily be derailed. What we can bask in is the unbelievable foreknowledge of our God. Once again I am amazed at the mystery of God’s realm of existence and understanding. It is far beyond ours.

It was foretold that Esau would serve Jacob. Obviously, Isaac had not “duly considered” the Divine word concerning his two sons. He took matters into his own hands. And yet, through what most would consider an odd experience, His Divine word was fulfilled.

I’m reminded once again, of our influence as parents. Matthew Henry reminds us that, “Rebekah knew that the blessing was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she wronged Isaac by putting a cheat on him; she wronged Jacob by tempting him to wickedness. She put a stumbling block in Esau’s way, and gave him a pretext for hatred to Jacob and religion. All were to be blamed. It was one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine promises; as if the end would justify, or excuse wrong means. Thus many have acted wrong, under the idea of being useful in promoting the cause of Christ. The Answer to all such things that which God addressed to Abraham, I am God Almighty; walk before me and be thou perfect.”

Father, make us sensitive to the means in which we live our lives. Produce in us, decision making abilities that choose your means in the journey towards your ends. When we stray, make us sensitive to your redirection. Sharpen us gently, Lord.

(Matthew 18)

There are three words of instruction Jesus gives us in regard to becoming like “little children”. I think it’s important we remember the qualifying word used here is “little”. There is a huge difference between little children and children. There is a different spirit of innocence and desire to belong. There is a desire to do whatever their “big brother” wants them to because they just love them so much. There is even a sweetness in how they treat smaller children. Although they make bad decisions often, they obey when redirected when instructed because they see a parent as absolute authority. They learn quickly. They act how they feel. They are fairly unpolluted by the world, just polluted by their nature, which with the right provision can be overcome. Here are the words related to the “little children”. (1) Whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. (2) Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. (3) See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. If you let your mind explore them, we’ll find how each of these three thoughts have so many facets.

Father, help us to humble ourselves before you and in how we relate with others, help us to be compassionate with others, help us to not see ourselves more highly than we ought to. May this all be an expression of love towards you and others.