As Jacob came to the end of his life, he called his sons to his side so that he may bless them. Together they make up the twelve tribes of Israel and we will see the different roles of each tribe foreshadowed in these words.

Jealousy leads to deep division within Jacob’s family. It is no wonder when you consider the rift that lay between his first two wives—sisters Leah and Rachel. The entire family is caught up in competition to be blessed by God with more children and blessed with Jacob’s loving affection.

Jacob was running for his life. He had deceived his father, stolen his brother’s birthright, and now Esau held plans in his heart to kill him.

Since we saw how long Abraham and Sarah longed for a son, and the trouble that came when they tried to fulfill God’s promise on their own, it is rather surprising when we see just a few chapters later that Abraham almost sacrifices this child of promise. We cannot read this story without wondering at the fear and faith that had to be battling within him. Yet, he chose to follow God’s command because he had learned the character of God.

Advent is a season of waiting. We wait for God’s promises to unfold and we wait for Christ’s coming. As family caregivers, we can relate to this intimately. The road ahead often seems unclear and we struggle to see beyond our circumstances.