2We continue to follow the story of God’s blessing as it moves down to the next generation. Isaac’s quest to find a wife is important because it is necessary to continue the lineage of blessing. The story about the camels being watered (Gen 24) is not a divine blueprint for finding a spouse. Rather, it shows God’s divine intervention to safeguard the promised lineage of Abraham through his descendants. (There was danger in this situation, because if Isaac had taken a wife from the surrounding nations, it would threaten to introduce the pagan practices of the surrounding cultures.) In this section there are several clear links between Abraham and Isaac. On one hand, we see a positive transmission from father to son: God reaffirms his commitment to bless Isaac in the same manner that he promised to bless his father Abraham (Gen 26:1-5). On the other hand, we see a negative transmission from father to son: Isaac gives in to unbelief and dodges the responsibility to protect his wife by claiming that she is his sister. Just like his dad did. This is a near fatal error because it threatens the lineage of promise. Once again, God has to intervene on behalf of his chosen people to protect them by using a (seemingly) pagan king to protect Rebecca.
Reflect: In what ways have the positive and negative aspects of your parents’ life been transmitted to your life?
Connect: The consequences of our parents’ actions can have a lasting impact on our lives – for good or for ill. In the NT, Paul showed how the faith of Timothy’s ancestors was instrumental in shaping him for good. How can you leave a spiritual legacy of faith – either through parenting or mentoring?
2 Timothy 1:5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.
