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In the unfolding story of G-d's dealings with the patriarchs and the house of Israel, we notice that Isaac does not have a big heroic story for his life. Not much is mentioned of Isaac's adventures compared with his father Abraham or his son Jacob. We know, however, that G-d had a plan for him. Isaac was the willing potential sacrifice of his father Abraham in Genesis chapter 22, and the covenant of G-d was passed down to his own son Jacob. G-d has a plan for each and every one of us, even though we may not see ourselves as having an important part in a great adventure, we are an integral part of G-d's plan for mankind.

This parasha, Torah portion, deals with G-d's sovereignty over birth, His sovereignty over the land, and His sovereignty over inheritance.

Chapter 25 gives the account of the birth of the twins, Jacob and Esau. Like Abraham, Isaac had a marriage which was barren of children. This caused him to seek G-d in prayer. Sometimes it appears that G-d is not blessing, not providing what we think we should have. It may be that the L-rd is using hardships in our lives to guide us and direct us closer to Him and His will in our lives. Often, as we seek His face during these urgent prayer times, we find relief from hardships. G-d wants to bless us, He wants us to seek and trust Him. G-d told Rebecca that she would have twins and the older would serve the younger. This was G-d's plan in determining their roles on this earth. G-d is sovereign over birth. He has a plan for us also. We should continuously seek His direction. G-d will reveal His plan. We should be in agreement with Him and not fight against His plan for our lives.

In chapter 26 Isaac lies to a king regarding his wife Rebecca. He was afraid the king would kill him to take her, so he said she was his sister. When the king found the truth he rebuked Isaac for putting his kingdom in jeopardy before G-d. Sound familiar? Like father-like son. We should speak truth before men, otherwise we could bring great harm and calamity to those with whom we have relationships: business, marriage, or otherwise. Trust G-d and speak forthrightly, do not be fearful of men, fear only G- d.

Philistines were in charge of the land where Isaac dwelt with his family. These heathen constantly harassed him. Whenever he dug a well, they would fill it in. They wanted to push him out of the land. Finally, because of G-d's sovereignty over the land, Isaac won the right to the land by being a constant witness of G- d's might in his life. This softened the hearts of the Philistines to him because of his G-dly example. G- d's name was glorified. Our lives should be an example to an evil and sinful world that they should desire G-d in their own lives and turn in repentance towards Him.

Chapter 27 goes on with the deception of Isaac by Jacob, to receive the blessings of the first born. Even though Jacob was impatient and showed a lack of trust in G-d's promise, Isaac knew that G-d had intended to pass the blessing through his son. Isaac did not take back his blessing after discovering the truth, and even blessed Esau. G-d's calling and blessing are sure. He will not withdraw them. G-d is sovereign over the inheritance He gives. He will complete His work within us and make us into the children of G-d that He wants in order to bring glory and honor to Himself.

Most of us are just like Isaac: ordinary, G-d fearing, seeking after the L-rd day by day. When Messiah Yeshua is the sovereign L-rd of our lives, we have the power and ability to have great adventures and be world-changers. We truly are an integral part of G-d's plan for mankind.

Shalom U'Bracha

Rabbi Z
 

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