Genesis 27 Don’t Let Illness Define You!
Dear Ones, the first Word in Genesis 27.1 should attract our ATTENTION. The Torah says, וַיְהִיVah Yih Hee – ‘Behold!’ or ‘It happened! Or ‘It came to pass.’ What happened? Isaac was old. Why is Isaac’s age significant? As time passes, shouldn’t most of us anticipate gracefully growing old? Yes! But it’s not just about growing old. The Torah is providing us a glimpse into Isaac’s spiritual, mental, and physical health in addition to his age. ‘Isaac’s eyes were dim, so he could not see.
We know Isaac. We know Abraham, Isaac’s father prepared an altar to present Isaac as a holy and willing offering, not as a sacrifice, on Mount Moriah. That is of great importance. Why? Isaac is holy. He follows the Observances of The Holy Scriptures. He wasn’t sinful, disobedient to God, or rebellious. Isaac was a stellar example of being top of the class. Yet, he was afflicted with dimness but not punished. Still, he suffered affliction. The message is when our body grows older like Isaac, we may experience old age afflictions. God is still faithful. The Torah is still perfect. Our faith should continue strong. Isaac is the first individual Holy Scripture speaks of as being afflicted with illness. It is essential to know that disease may come with old age for some of us regardless of our righteousness.
Moses wrote A Prayer of Moses, the man of God. Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, before You had Formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. You Return man to dust; and say, ‘Turn back, O children of men!’ For a thousand years in Your sight are but like yesterday when it is past, and like a watch in the night. You Sweep them away; they are like sleepers; they are like short-lived grass in the morning. In the morning it flourishes, and fades; by evening, it is withered and dry. For we are consumed by Your Anger, and by Your Wrath are we terrified. You have Set our iniquities before You, our secret sins in the light of Your Countenance. For all our days pass away in Your Wrath; we spend our years like a tale that is told. The days of our years are seventy; or if, because of strength, they are eighty years, Yet their pride is but trouble and wretchedness; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. – Psalm 90
I have found it necessary to redefine my role due to illnesses.
New pleasures and interests are standing in line for seniors and disabled people like me. There are opportunities all around if we are willing to try. We can choose new paths of creativity and embrace them enthusiastically.
A few of us live through seemingly hopeless depressing periods that may feel like life is over. That is true for some, but it is not valid for everyone!! Abraham lived thirty-five years after Isaac became the focus of the Torah. Abraham and Keturah reunited. They enjoyed a good life with children and grandchildren.
Isaac lived twenty-six years after the Holy Scriptures focused on Jacob. He was disabled. It was difficult for Jacob to stand, walk, sit because his hip was out of it’s socket.
As we continue towards Shabbat, perhaps some of our bodies may decay, yet, we are comforted in knowing our Spirit / Soul is refreshed by the living water that flows from The Torah. May we receive rest, comfort, unity, peace, loving kindness, good health, financial success, and a wonderful week and a beautiful Shabbat.
Blessings and Peace!
Dr. Akiva Gamliel Belk
