Here Comes Jesus

This is the account of Esau’s descendants, the Edomites, who lived in the hill country of Seir. [Genesis 36.9]

This introduction to Esau's descendants will not be the last a Bible student will hear of them. In fact, the Edomites and sub clan Amalekites are seen opposing Israel constantly where they are seen in the Bible.

All over a bowl of stew.

Not really though... It actually all started when Rebekah was pregnant with twins who evidently caused quite a ruckus in the womb:

And the LORD told her, “The sons in your womb will become two nations. From the very beginning, the two nations will be rivals. One nation will be stronger than the other; and your older son will serve your younger son.” [Genesis 25.23]

For whatever reason, Esau would serve Jacob.

Now, the fact that Esau was "older" is certainly debatable, right? I mean, they were twins... But as it turns out, the first one "out" (as birth goes) would naturally be deemed the older of twins.

In my understanding, what we see going on here in this narrative is confirmation of "Israel's" favor in God's eyes from before birth. The birth order of Esau and Jacob was simply the first confirming sign-post on Israel's journey through history.

It's kind of cool when you think of it that way. Here comes Jesus!

Father, thank You for defining Israel very early as Your chosen people - from whom would descend Your Son, our Messiah, Jesus!