Today’s reading: Genesis 48:1-22
Jacob is an old man by the time he is reunited with Joseph in Egypt, and as we reach Genesis 48 Jacob’s time on earth is coming to an end. As he is on his deathbed, Joseph visits his father and brings his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, with him. It’s a sweet and intimate family time in which, despite being weak, Jacob makes sure that God and His love, goodness and promises are front and center in this interaction with Joseph and his sons.
Reading this account, brought to mind memories of both of my parents and how they remained steadfast in proclaiming God’s love and goodness in their final few months on earth. My dad was especially verbal in this regard. One of my favorite memories from his last weeks was taking him for a radiation treatment, and then hearing him immediately engage the nurse in a conversation about God and salvation. The particular incidence I’m recalling went like this. After saying hello to the nurse and her asking his name and a couple of details, I heard my dad say (from across the room and behind the treatment room curtain), “I have an important question for you. Do you know Jesus?” The approach was certainly bold, but it opened the door for him to have an in depth conversation with this woman about God, His love for her and her need for a Savior. You see, my dad knew his time was limited and he was determined to make the most of every moment for God.
None of us know when we’ll draw our last breath. That being the case, how are you making the most of the time you have on earth for God? What does you being a bold witness look like–at home with your family, at work, at school, with your friends or neighbors? Tami
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Source: Tami’s Blog
