Today’s Scripture Reading (September
1, 2012): Deuteronomy 2
Sibling
relationships can be tough. Growing up close to each other and competing for
family honor can leave a lasting scar on relationships. A number of years ago I
had the privilege of being friends with five brothers. Every single one of them
had great attributes and I loved to spend time with all of them. But the
problem was that none of them liked to spend time with each other. They had
competed within the family unit for so long that they had just lost sight of
how great each one of them was. It was never a message that they would listen
to from me, but my hope is that as they grow older, they will rediscover each
other.
Jacob and
Esau had turbulent life together. They had competed for the affections of their
parents and had achieved a split decision – Jacob winning the battle with mom
while Esau won the battle with Dad. Jacob had run from his brother and feared
for his life. Later in life, the brothers did reconcile, but they had missed so
much of each other’s lives – and maybe even had lost what was special about the
other. But they did reconcile.
Malachi says
that God hated Esau, but that was probably a reaction to faithlessness of Edom
(the descendants of Esau) in later days. For now, God seemed to want to protect
the reconciled relationship between the descendants of the two brothers.
Family and
commitment is important to God. He has placed us in family units for support
and encouragement. It is possible that my view on sibling relationships is
influenced by the great relationship I have with my sister, but it is a
relationship that I wish every brother and sister could enjoy. Where ever your
siblings are, they are important enough to protect the relationship that you
have with them. Family is more important than we often realize. And it was
given to us by the God who created us.
Tomorrow’s Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy
3
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