Monday 1 July, 2019

25 Abraham had taken another wife, whose name was Keturah. 2 She bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak and Shuah. 3 Jokshan was the father of Sheba and Dedan; the descendants of Dedan were the Ashurites, the Letushites and the Leummites. 4 The sons of Midian were Ephah, Epher, Hanok, Abida and Eldaah. All these were descendants of Keturah. 5 Abraham left everything he owned to Isaac. 6 But while he was still living, he gave gifts to the sons of his concubines and sent them away from his son Isaac to the land of the east. 7 Abraham lived a hundred and seventy-five years. 8 Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people. 9 His sons Isaac and Ishmael buried him in the cave of Machpelah near Mamre, in the field of Ephron son of Zohar the Hittite, 10 the field Abraham had bought from the Hittites.[a] There Abraham was buried with his wife Sarah. 11 After Abraham’s death, God blessed his son Isaac, who then lived near Beer Lahai Roi.

This is a great picture of the end of life for a man who was beloved by his family and God. He made arrangements for all of his family. Gifts to the newer members and help to go to another place where they would have room to succeed without competing with Isaac. Inheritance for Isaac as per Jewish tradition. The family took him and buried him next to his wife just as had been planned. God looked after Isaac.

Having such an end to life would be wonderful.

Lord God help each of us to live a life of blessing on those around us – our families and friends. Help us to stay connected with You and to follow the path You have set for us. Amen.

Written by Therese Manning