Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Then they journeyed from Bethel; and when they were still some distance from Ephrath, Rachel was in childbirth, and she had hard labor. When she was in her hard labor, the midwife said to her, ‘Do not be afraid; for now you will have another son.’ As her soul was departing (for she died), she named him Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin.”
NL Daily Devotion for Thursday, September 24, 2026
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
The theme of birth continues this week. First Abram is promised descendants, though he and his Sarai are old and she is barren. Then, miraculously, Sarai gives birth to Isaac. Isaac marries Rebekah (who is at first barren) and she gives birth the Esau and Jacob. Jacob marries Leah and Rachel (who is at first barren), and now we read of Rachel giving birth to her second child and dying in the process. Genesis is, more than anything, the story of God keeping God’s promises to the people God created and loves. In spite of problematic behavior, barrenness, dysfunctional family systems, God is determined to establish human society on earth not just for its own sake, but as a means by which the love of God can be shared with all of creation. He blesses Abram to be a blessing to the world.
There is tragedy. The fall. The flood. The strife between brothers (which is about to get even worse). And, here, the death of Jacob’s beloved wife, Rachel, even as she brings another beloved child into the world.
Sometimes it feels as though our world is filled with senseless tragedy. Conflict. Natural disasters. Death. Genesis reminds us that no matter what we face, God is right there with us, holding us, loving us, promising to bring joy out of sorrow. And God keeps God’s promises.
Where have I felt the presence of God in the midst of serious challenges?
