Day 16

Looking Back and Looking Ahead

Read: Genesis 48-50

As Jacob nears the end of his life, he looks back and speaks of “the God who has led me all my life long to this day” (48:15 RSV). God is always willing to lead us in ways that are good for us. The only question is, are we ready to follow? It is good to look back and gratefully see the loving hand of God in all that has happened to us. It is even more important to look forward to the future. Both Jacob and Joseph speak of the time when their people will return to the Promised Land. They are keeping their eyes fixed on the promise of God that their children will inherit the land of Canaan. Things were going well, but they knew that God had something more important in store for them. So with us, no matter what our situation is, let us remember that God has promised far better things for us in the future.

Here there is even a farther look ahead. The blessings of Jacob on his children include the one to Judah which promises that the symbol of rule will be in the hands of his descendants “until he comes to whom it belongs” (49:10 RSV). This is seen as a promise that Christ will come of the tribe of Judah, and so it was. Our future is in Christ’s hands. That’s great. Faith in that fact should give us an inner peace available in no other way.

Prayer: Father, we look back with thanksgiving and forward with trust in you and your wonderful promises. In Jesus’ name. Amen.