Day 13, 13th September: Genesis, Matthew, Psalms
Stealing a blessing versus being a blessing
Ali Martin
Today’s readings:
Genesis 27:1-28:22
Matthew 10:32-11:15
Psalm 9:1-6
Back in Year 8 the night before I had a particular creative writing essay due I realised I didn’t have time to come up with anything good. So I copied a short story from my favourite magazine (as you do!) and the next day handed it in.
The following week I was told my mark: A+. But I didn’t get the essay back: the teacher wanted to read it to the class. I sat in my seat cringing as he began but a few paragraphs in I couldn’t stand it anymore. I stood up and walked to the front, took the essay from Mr Osbourne and with tears streaming down my face in front of my whole class I tore it in half saying, “You can’t do this. It’s not mine”. I’ve always been a bit of a drama queen.
No such embarrassment or remorse for Jacob. He pulls off his grand deception without even a blush. Full on fancy dress disguise and a bit of his mum’s cooking – his Dad is duped and his big brother is stuffed.
Fast forward to Matthew and we come face to face with another son who couldn’t be more different. There is no deception in this Son. Instead of grabbing for a blessing, Jesus gave up all the wonders of heaven. He came not to be served but to serve. Instead of taking for himself he gave again and again: miracles, gifts of healing, words of freedom and later even his life. The birthright and blessing that was rightfully his as God’s son he came ultimately to share with us – relationship with God the Father, new and eternal life, hope, grace, freedom and love.
Jacob uses deception to grab a blessing for himself. Jesus in love and obedience gives the blessing of himself. Our model is Jesus not Jacob! Let’s thank the Lord for all that is ours through him. But let’s also ask him how we can today share and pass on some of the amazing gifts that are ours through Jesus.
Who today needs hope? Where is grace needed? Where is love lacking? How can love transform? Because of Jesus there is no need for us to steal a blessing, but today we are called to be a blessing.
