Genesis 35:16-29
Today's Scripture

Today's passage is a story of life and death--of birth and old age. Rachel gives birth to her second son, but her labor is difficult and she dies in childbirth. Jacob lovingly places her in a tomb and sets a special marker by it As a strange aside, Jacob's oldest son, Reuben, is said to have slept with his father's concubine. His father hears of it, but at least in this passage, no action is taken.

Jacob arrives home to his father, and Isaac lives to a good old age. His sons live to bury him--apparently Jacob and Esau have reconciled and live in peace.

Jacob's twelve sons are listed here--the ones who become the heads of the tribes of Israel. God begins his nation right here--through heartache and rejoicing. But no matter the circumstances--in the life of the fledgling nation of Israel or in our own today--he is with us to guide us and love us.
- posted by Suzi @ 5:14 AM