To say Hagar is remarkable because of her insight about God isn’t the first way we usually think of her. Is Hagar one of those Old Testament Biblical figures you know because she was exiled from a home where her child was fathered by the head of the household? That was largely the context I […]
Archive | Pentateuch/Torah
Two points you might not know about Genesis
Imagine having gone through one of the most challenging experiences of your life. You might ask (like millions before you have), “Where was God in all of the mess/challenge/disaster”? Now imagine that someone said everything that you had lost (health/spouse/freedom/job/etc.) does not spell the end. Why? Because there is a way out as you respond […]
Who is the Mysterious Melchizedek?
There are three Biblical books that reference Melchizedek, but it is the first referral which provides the clue to unpack his identity the most–Gen. 14:17 It not only is the first to cite Melchizedek but the first to mention a priest in all of Scripture. In addition to the ritualistic functions we think of […]
Six Reasons why Abraham is a January Role Model
With a new year, who better to look at biblically than Abraham, that Scriptural template for new starts. His life spans 14 chapters in the book of Genesis (from 11 – 25) and weaves an extraordinary story of faithfulness, mistakes, and renewed efforts. I’ve loved reviewing the sweeping events of this Patriarch of Israel’s life, […]
A Surprise Lesson from Joshua
The burning bush and Red Sea parting may be some of the most well-known stories of the Hebrew Bible. But do we realize Joshua had his own exceptional signs of God’s guiding presence? This came to light recently while rereading Joshua. Some quick background: Moses had finished his role leading the Children of Israel from […]