We're diving into the Book of Jubilees, a text that fills in some of the gaps in the Genesis story. It's considered apocryphal by some, but it gives us a richer, more detailed look at the lives of our ancestors.
Here, Jacob is visiting his father, Isaac. Isaac, nearing the end of his days, gives his son some crucial advice, advice that resonates even now. Isaac says, "set thy mother (on an ass) and let her go with thee. And I know, my son, that thou hast come on my account, and may this day be blessed on which thou hast seen me alive, and I also have seen thee, my son."
It's a tender moment, a father's blessing. But there's more to it than just familial affection. Isaac continues, "Mayest thou prosper and fulfil the vow which thou hast vowed, and put not off thy vow; for thou wilt be called to account as touching the vow."
A vow. A promise made to God. In Jacob's case, this refers to the vow he made at Bethel, that if God would be with him and protect him on his journey, he would return and build an altar there. (Genesis 28:20-22) Isaac is urging him, with his last breaths almost, to not delay. Don't procrastinate!
Why the urgency? Isaac explains, "now therefore make haste to perform it, and may He be pleased who hath made all things, to whom thou hast vowed the vow." It’s a powerful reminder that our promises matter, especially those made to the Divine. There's a weight to them.
And it's not just Jacob who gets involved. Isaac turns to Rebecca, Jacob's mother, and says: "Go with Jacob thy son." So Rebecca, along with Deborah, her nursemaid, join Jacob on his journey back to Bethel.
So, what does this little snippet from Jubilees tell us?
It reminds us of the importance of keeping our promises, of honoring our commitments, particularly those we make to something bigger than ourselves. Life gets busy, distractions abound, but Isaac's words echo through the ages: don't put it off.
And it also speaks to the power of family, of mothers and sons and the bonds that tie them together, supporting each other on journeys of faith and fulfillment. It’s a journey they undertake together.
Next time you find yourself putting off a promise, remember Jacob and Isaac. Remember the weight of a vow, and the blessing that comes with fulfilling it. And maybe, just maybe, you'll find the strength to finally get it done. Because sometimes, the most important journeys are the ones we keep putting off.