This section covers the last blessings (prophecies) of Jacob over his sons and then shows funerals for both Jacob and Joseph. I found several interesting discussions about how those prophecies can true from the Hebrew Shabbat readings. Some are really cool and give some historical insight into the context of all that's going on that we don't usually have. You'll need to be flexible as you read names (The Y and J sounds are basically interchangable along with the B and V) but I think you can get through it...
With all changes, there's a look forward and God is the one who makes that possible. One of the best things about our God is that He knows the end from the beginning and his compassions are everlasting. Jacob had a blessing of some kind for each of his children, unlike his father that only intended to have a blessing for his firstborn. Each blessing is given according to the character of the child and both Jacob and God have a say. For instance, the voilence and impulsive defensiveness of Simeon and Levi were well known by then and they feed off of each other. As a result they are scattered through the nation. The Levites became the priests and Simeon's children became the teachers. God has a role for each of them--no one is left behind.Speaking of which, Joseph's brothers begin to wonder if he will continue to forgive them for all they have done. Nothing has changed, because his generosity was not tied to them but to what God has done, but their distrust of him breaks his heart all over again.
Because Joseph has been so important to the Egyptian people, it probably wouldn't be ok for him to be buried there at the time of his death. He does prophesy again that there will be a day when they return to the land God promised him and he doesn't want to be left behind.
Throughout these chapters God shows that He holds our end and guarantees our future. Both Jacob and Joseph plan for a future beyond them.
How are you planning for the future? How are you praying for a legacy?
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