Bible Discussion Thread

Lot, Bethuel and Isaac were from the same generation, but obviously, there was a generation age gap between Isaac and the others. Therefore, Rebekah and Laban, were similar in age to Isaac, who was about 30, but of the next generation. This can be confusing to some who do not have this "one generation removed" relationships. It is common in large families when the youngest in a family is close in age or even younger that the children of his/her siblings. He/she would be an aunt or uncle to their siblings child, but close in age. That is why we say, one generation removed. They are similar in age but not of the same generation. I have this in my family due to 20 years between my oldest sibling and youngest sibling and 8 siblings between these two. My younger brother became an uncle at age 6.

Back to the text. After the long journey the caravan approached where Isaac and Abraham lived. Glad to read that Isaac was alone meditating. What was he thinking about? Perhaps on the promises and covenant that God had made with his father and praying about its fulfilment when the servant returned. He was probably hoping the servant returned with someone suitable to be his wife. He may have been praying about becoming a good husband like his father. He may have been preparing himself for the arrival of his bride. As the caravan approached they glimpsed each other. Upon inquiring who Isaac was, Rebekah covered her face with a veil, which was probably customary until two betrothed people were married. Even so, from the moment they saw each other, God caused a love for each other to be born in each of them. That is amazing! My husband and I have been married 42 years and it wasn't love at first sight. We were in college and had an opportunity to get to know one another before we got serious. He loved me first and God created a love in my heart for him after that. He waited for God to grow that love in me for him. He could have looked elsewhere, but waited for me. We're blessed.

Indeed GiGi, that was a beautiful love story in Genesis chapter 24, coupled with a special account of your beautiful personal love story. We can always look back & find joy in how the Lord has led us over the years, not just for marriage, but in every area of our lives; that the our praise only goes back to Him.

As well, I can identify with the 'one generation removed'. I thought becoming a grand-uncle at age 40 yrs was good going, until I read of your brother being an uncle at age 6. I'm sure he's never let his nephews/nieces forget that one!

Good evening, Chris.

Thanks again. One thing my husband and I always remember is that God did bring us together, so in the rough times, how can we throw away what God has put together? We are keenly aware that we hold the other's future hopes and dreams in our hands by our choice to stay true to our commitment made on our wedding day. To break that and leave the marriage is to chose to shatter and steal away this future from the other person. We chose the way of "loving the other as myself" approach even when life is challenging. And besides, there really isn't anyone else so suited for each other than we are.

I became a great, great aunt 7 years ago. That makes me feel old, and I am not yet a grandmother! HaHa.

I thank you for reading my thoughts as I think "outloud" as I write about these chapters. It is good to have feedback and know that another is walking along with me in this endeavor. Most of the postings on the chapters are past being able to reply to, so I hope there will be others beginning their journey to interact with as well.