Gen. 41-42
It seems Reuben is trying to regain his status with his father after the concubine incident. First, he planned to rescue Joseph from the pit and be the one to restore Jacob’s favorite son to him. But that plot failed. Now he is offering up his own two sons in a vow to his father (which his father does not accept). Regret is a funny thing, and we are not always given the opportunity to make amends for our poor decisions. Second chances don’t always come. I would love to seal that truth in the forefront of my mind so it will be readily available next time I am faced with the temptation to make a poor decision!
I also see that Jacob is still a selfish man, sacrificing Simeon so that he can hang on to Benjamin. It seems Jacob will be a hard-headed and contentious soul to his death – and that gives me hope for me.
Matt. 22:1-22
This parable of the wedding feast – I believe the invited guests who did not come are the Jews, and the others who were invited after are the rest of us. I’m a little iffy about the man without the wedding garment, though. That seems to be along the lines of those who will say to Jesus, “Lord, Lord,” but He will say, “depart from me, I never knew you.” (Matt 7:23). So I think this speaks of religious people who have not truly given their hearts to Christ – insincere ‘believers’.
Given Jacob’s story, I don’t think this is talking about ‘getting it right’ all, or even a majority, of the time. I believe Jacob gave himself fully to God, but he still struggled with himself, more than anything. This other type is more Pharisee-like, where they are more interested in putting on a good show and looking good than they are in any real and lasting internal change. So, though I so very often get it wrong, I can have confidence that I, too, am among the chosen.