Thankful for Beginnings

By Mary Vee

Genesis 1:1-19

In the beginning God...

Before anyone. Before anything. Before plants or animals. Before angels. God lived.

Then God made angels. No clocks, no sunshine, no earth, no people--yet.

A lot happened with the angels. This story will be told at another time. For today we'll jump ahead.

In the beginning of time God thought of you. He made the heavens and the earth, knowing you would be here one day.

It was dark.

God said, "Let there be light." Instantly light appeared. God knew you needed light to live. Will you thank God for light, right now? When you thank Him, please tell Him how you use light.

God divided the light from the dark and called the light day and the dark night. God knew you needed the dark to rest. Will you thank God for the dark? When you thank Him, please tell Him how you use the dark.

On day 2 God separated the waters. He put some above and some below. He knew you needed water to live. Will you thank God for the water that is above and on the earth? When you thank Him, please tell him how you use both waters.

On day 3 God gathered the waters on earth into one place so that land would appear. He knew you couldn't live in the water all the time! Next He said, "Let there be grass, plants, and trees." God saw that it was good. He knew you needed them to live. Will you thank God for the grass, plants, and trees? When you thank Him, please tell Him how you use them.

On day 4 God made the sun, the moon, and the stars. He put everything in the exact right spot because He knew you needed them. He made sure that all the stars, the earth, and the moon moved in the right way to make seasons. He knew you need them to live. Will you thank God for the sun, the moon, the stars, and the seasons? When you thank Him, please tell Him how you use them.

God thinks of you everyday and all night long. Did you know God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Every day is new.

I can start each day by thanking God for--well, for so many things. Sometimes I'm just thankful for a new day because my last day had problems. Sometimes my new day has something special, exciting, and wonderful that I've waited for. What are you thankful for? Try to think of at least one thing to be thankful for that you never thought to give thanks to God. Will you share them with me? Click on the comment button.

I'll start...ummmm..oh, I know...I'm thankful for the clouds I see out my window right now. They bring shade, rain, snow, and come in silly shapes like dinosaurs.

COME BACK ON WEDNESDAY TO FINISH THIS THANKFUL FOR BEGINNINGS STORY. DO YOU KNOW WHAT COMES NEXT?

I took this picture while on a vacation at my sister's house in Savannah, Georgia.

Jacob's Delicious Stew

By Mary Vee

Genesis 25:29-34

Esau got up early one morning. He stretched and yawned. "Yes. I feel it in my bones. Today, I'm going to track the biggest boar Father has ever seen."

Jacob sat up and tossed a blanket at his brother's head. "You say that every morning."

"OK, well--all right, I might say that every morning, but today is different. Something big is going to happen."

Jacob rolled his eyes then flopped out of bed.

Esau leaned out the window. "Look, the sun is rising. Golden sky over there, clear dark-blue sky overhead. I'm telling you, Jacob. This is a day to remember."

Esau strutted out to the breakfast table. Jacob followed, snickering.

Isaac set his cup down and waited for his sons to pray for their meal.
"Morning, boys. Did you sleep well?"

Esau shoved his shoulders back and lifted his chin. "I'll bring you home a surprise, Father."

Isaac smiled. "I'll look forward to that. In the meantime, your mother and I have an errand. We'll be gone 'till sunset."

"No problem." Jacob grabbed a hunk of bread. "I'll cook some stew for dinner. I can squeeze that in between chores."

Isaac pushed himself from the table. "Ready to go, Rebekah?"

She ran back to the bedroom. "In a minute!" Isaac chuckled and walked out to the barn.

"Well, Jacob." Esau grabbed his bow and quiver. "I'm heading out to get my boar. You'll probably need the meat to improve your stew." He waved goodbye to his Father and walked out to the fields.

"We'll see who makes the stew better." Jacob whispered to himself.

The day passed by quickly. Jacob poured olive oil in a big pot. He chopped up vegetables and browned them in the oil. "Mmmm, I love that smell."

He added lentils, leftover broth from yesterday's dinner, and more water. He cut bite size hunks of meat and tossed them in. "This stew smells so good. I'll add a few spices and let it cook awhile."

Jacob did a few chores, stirred the stew, then did a few more chores. He took a deep breath. "This stew is the best I've ever made. Don't know what I did right this time, but Mother and Father are really going to like dinner tonight."

He gave the stew another stir then noticed Esau walking in from the fields. Big boar, eh?

Esau staggered next to the campfire and plopped down at the table. "Please feed me with that red stew. I'm starved."

Jacob raised his eyebrows. "Sell me your birthright as of this day."

"Look, Jacob, I'm going to die, I'm so starved--Fine--Whatever--Take the birthright. It means nothing to me."

Jacob grabbed a bowl, filled it, and held it out of his brother's reach. "Promise me, right now, as of this day the birthright is mine."

"All right, all right, I promise. Now give me the stew."

Jacob set the bowl of stew and some bread in front of his brother.

Although God promised Jacob the birthright, His plan did not include Jacob tricking his brother to get it. His plan also did not include Esau giving away his birthright for a bowl of stew. What consequences did Jacob suffer? What consequences did Esau suffer? What should they have differently?

Seek and Find

By Mary Vee


Several animals seemed to have taken a wrong turn!
The following are hiding in this picture. Can you find all of them?
2 camels, 4 stars, toucan, 2 sheep, peacock, polar bear, earth, Abraham, Ketura, Esau, Jacob, tiger, 2 rabbits, giraffe, kangaroo, monkey, Noah's ark, donkey
*****
Last week's game was an Anagram. I gave the word "Mesopotamia"

Here are a few of the words I found: pot, tame, meat, seat, pet, met, pots, tames, pets, atom. What else do you see.

Brothers Jacob and Esau, Isaac and Ishmael

By Mary Vee

Genesis 25:7-11 and 27-28

Isaac and Rebekah's sons grew to be healthy, young men. Even though they grew up together in the same home they liked to do different things.

Esau grabbed his bow one morning. "Mom, I'm going hunting."

"OK, Son. Can you bring something back for supper?"

"Sure, no problem."

Jacob watched his brother head out to the fields. "I'm glad he likes to hunt. I'd rather tend sheep and fix things around the tents. There's so much to do!"

Then again, Esau and Jacob were boys!

"Dad! I can't find my bow anywhere. Make Jacob give it back."

While Jacob snickered, Esau grabbed Jacob's shepherd staff, climbed the tree and hooked it to a high branch. "That will show him."

"Give me back my staff, Esau."

"Not until you give me my bow."

As the years passed, Esau noticed how much his dad liked eating the meat he hunted. This made him want to hunt for the best no matter how long it took.

Jacob noticed how much his mom appreciated the way he took care of the sheep and how he fixed things around the tents right away.

Still, they were brothers.

In the early evenings Rebekah complained to Isaac. "Those boys are driving me crazy. Do you know what Esau did? He tied branches to the tails of the sheep with vines. It took Jacob all morning to untangle them. And Jacob. He took the skin Esau left hanging to dry, draped it over himself and jumped out from behind that tree. Esau nearly shot him with an arrow."

"There, there, Dear. Their fifteen."

"They may not live to be sixteen."

A few days later one of Abraham's servants arrived with a message. "Master, your father, Abraham, became ill. He died in his sleep last night."

Isaac lowered his head and wiped a tear. "Does my brother Ishmael know?"

"Another servant took him the message last night."

Isaac and his family left immediately for his father's home. Ishmael arrived a few hours later.

Isaac walked out to greet him. "How are you, my brother?"

"As well as could be expected. And you?"

"Same."

Together they visited their father. They held his hand and said "Good bye."

Isaac turned to Ishmael. "Father would want to be buried next to Sarah."

"Yes, I agree. Let's leave first thing in the morning."

Esau and Jacob helped prepare the wagon. They sat by the fire after dinner and listened to Isaac and Ishmael. They mourned and laughed at family stories late into the evening.

Early the next morning, Isaac, Ishmael and several servants ate breakfast and gathered a few last things for the journey to bury their father.

Esau and Jacob ran after them. "Dad, can we go?"

Isaac looked at Ishmael. "Well?"

Ishmael nodded. "Up to you."

"OK, but, I want to spend time talking with my brother, Ishmael."

Sometimes family members grow up and move to different places. They still care about each other even though they're apart. God blessed both Isaac and Ishmael since they were Abraham's sons, but God chose Isaac to continue the job and receive the blessings He gave to Abraham.

Jacob and Esau liked different things. In the stories to come, we'll see God's plan for both Jacob and Esau. How are you different from your brother, sister, cousin, or friend?

I live far from my brother and sisters. God asked me to tell Bible stories. What do you think God wants you to do?

Wait...Wait...Wait...Isaac had to Wait.

By Mary Vee

Genesis 25:20-26

Isaac truly loved Rebekah. He had the most beautiful wife in all the world. She kept him company, made great stews, and even spent time in prayer with him.

One day Isaac sneaked behind Rebekah and tickled her.

She squealed. She chased after him.

He stayed an arms reach away and laughed. "God couldn't have given me a better wife."

"Ha, ha. You say that because you don't want me to catch you." Rebekah held her skirt tight and ran faster. "Need I remind you I have a brother?"

Isaac grabbed a tree limb above his head and flung himself up on the branch. "Yes, I seem to recall you have a brother. Perhaps he needed to tease you more!"

Rebekah raised her chin. "I'll let you escape this time, for the sake of the stew that is about to burn. Next time, dear husband, you won't be so fortunate."

Isaac shook his head and laughed while watching his bride run back to the fire and stir the stew. She ran in and out of the tent putting the finishing touches on the dinner.

He didn't want to climb down from the tree yet. He enjoyed watching her. "Hard to believe we've been married over fifteen years already. Where does the time go?"

After dinner, Issac went out to the fields to pray. The air felt moist and crisp. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath of late fall air. "Oh God of my father, Abraham. You know how Rebeka and I have longed for a child. Yes, I know you promised me a son, but I would like to play with him before I die."

He squinted his eyes and wrinkled his nose hoping God knew his playful heart. "You know I've remained faithful to my beautiful Rebekah and have gladly waited for you to give us a son. But, perhaps, you could give us this child soon?"

Isaac remembered Rebekah's sweet spirit. "God, have you noticed, Rebekah hasn't complained about not having a child yet? I pray, Oh, God of my father, Abraham, please give us a child soon."

Time passed by. One day Rebekah skipped out to the stable. She flittered around her husband. "Isaac, Isaac, guess what? Guess what?"

He didn't know whether to laugh or think she was crazy. "Ahhh, what?"

"Oh, come on, guess, please?"

"OK, you made my favorite goat stew for dinner."

Rebekah rolled her eyes. "Nooooo. Try again."

"Ummmmm, you finished mending my favorite tunic."

She playfully punched him. "Come on, Isaac. Try harder."

He scratched his beard. "Ahhhhhh, I give up."

"We're going to have a baby!"

Isaac's jaw fell open. "I--we--we're going to have a baby?" He twirled Rebekah around and the two laughed and laughed.

Several months later, Rebekah noticed a problem. Afraid that something might be wrong with her baby she walked out to the field and asked God, "If everything is well, why do I feel these pains?"

God answered, "You will have twins. Each will be a nation. One will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger."

When the time came for the babies to be born, the first baby looked red and had lots of hair. "I will name him Esau which means 'red'"

Right away Esau's brother was born. His little hand had a hold of Esau's heel. Rebekah looked at her second son. "I will name him Jacob."

Isaac felt very proud. "God gave me two sons!"

When Rebekah felt well enough, the family visited Grandpa Abraham to let him see his new grandsons. "Look, Father, these are my sons, Esau and Jacob."

Abraham gave Isaac a hug. "Congratulations, son."

Sometimes God tests our faithfulness. He wants to know if we will choose to stay faithful and trust Him to provide if we have to wait. King David waited a long time to be king. My brother waited to get a job. Do you know someone who had to wait?

Bible Anagram I

By Mary Vee



Did you beat me? Click on the comment button to tell how many you found.


ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S DOT TO DOT: Noah's Ark

Abraham is Lonely

By Mary Vee

Genesis 25: 1-2

Abraham sat down after the marriage party for his son, Isaac, and yawned. "He truly loves Rebekah. Such happiness is more than I could have hoped."

Eliezer served his master some drink. "You look weary. Wedding parties are exciting but exhausting."

"Especially when you're as old as I." Abraham pressed his cane into the dirt and shuffled to get comfortable. "140 years is not so young."

"Such words from a man who hiked throughout this country, went to battle against a fierce king to save his nephew, built up his wealth in a new land, and fathered a son when he thought he was too old."

"For a servant you have a quick tongue. Remember, none of those things would have happened without God's hand directly involved." Abraham stroked his beard and looked toward the fields. "Maybe my days are coming to a close."

"Please don't say that. Perhaps you're lonely."

"It has been quiet since Sarah died. Too quiet." Abraham pushed himself up and walked to a nearby tree. "Isaac will be busy setting up his own home. I'll miss the long talks we've had."

The party music continued to play softly. Abraham glanced back at Isaac and his bride. "Didn't you say she makes a delicious goat stew?"

"Her mother told me."

"Maybe she'll make me--" Abraham suddenly noticed one of the head servants. She served Isaac a fresh drink then walked back to the cooking tent.

"Ketura is--"

Eliezer looked at his master. "Yes? Ketura is one of our best servants. She has served faithfully for many years"

"I mean, Ketura is--"

Eliezer looked at Ketura then back at his master. "Uh huh. I understand."

Abraham hobbled over to Ketura. They talked long into the night. It felt good to have someone to talk to.

During his prayer time, Abraham paced in the field. He thanked God for the wonderful wife he sent for Isaac and for guiding Eliezer to her home. He thanked God for giving them a safe journey.

He praised God for choosing to give him his land, his cattle and sheep, and a bountiful harvest. He praised God for faithful servants that stayed with him.

Then Abraham stood still. He stoked his beard and sighed. "It seems to me, God, Ketura would be a good friend and a great helper to me. True, I could never love her as I loved Sarah, but I sure would enjoy her company. What do you think?"

He gazed up at the night stars and let a smile pop. Deep inside, his happy heart told him God approved.

One day, Abraham married Ketura. He loved the strolls in the fields and the long evening talks. They had six sons: Zimram, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah.

You'll want to notice their son's names. Maybe one looks familiar to you. We will get to know more about Midian in stories about Moses and Gideon.

In the meantime, think about God's love for Abraham. Once Isaac married Rebekah, it seemed Abraham finished the work God gave him. He became lonely. What did God show Abraham?

Isaac Can't Stop Smiling

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:62-

Isaac stretched. "I wonder if Eliezer will come today?"

He threw the blankets on his bed and hurried outside the tent. The air smelled especially sweet.

Servants bustled about feeding the animals. Isaac laughed. He didn't know why. He didn't know what was funny. He simply felt like laughing.

He ate his breakfast. "This food tastes better than it has before. I wonder why?"

One of the workers walked past him and furrowed his brows. "Are you all right?"

"Yes, of course." Isaac looked toward the east. "Cast your eyes upon that magnificent sunrise. I tell you, there's something special about today. Don't know what it is, yet. But I feel it deep inside."

The worker shook his head and walked away.

Isaac gazed out at the family fields. "It'll be a great crop this year."

He walked up the hill and sat on a clump of soft grass. "If I counted the days right, according to what Father told me, Eliezer should have arrived at our family home in Mesopotamia. He probably looked around the city for the perfect girl to be my wife, met with her family then paid the dowery. If they left the next day, they should be arriving soon."

Isaac yanked a few blades of grass and shredded them into pieces. "What am I thinking? First of all, Eliezer would be cautious. He'd take his time and search carefully for the right girl to be my wife. That would take days. Then, if he found a girl, maybe her family wouldn't believe his story about Father's riches. Even if he showed proof! It will be months before he comes back. Or, maybe he won't find someone willing to come here." He threw the grass on the ground.

He stood and took a deep breath. "Then why do I feel such joy in my heart today?" He walked between rows of wheat.

A lamb bleated in the distance. "God of my father, Abraham, you have given our family many things." Isaac stood still. He listened to the gentle breeze fluttering through the wheat. "I hardly know how to thank you."

A smile popped across his face. He laughed. "Lord, I don't know why this joy keeps bursting inside me. But I thank you."

Isaac hurried to do his work. The animals went where he wanted them to go. The servants didn't fight. The sun shone all day.

Isaac sat down to eat his supper. He gazed up at the sky. "Lord, thank you for this meal. Thank you for a good day of work."

Once again, his food tasted better than it had tasted before. Isaac stroke his beard. A glimmer of sun sparkled off the wheat. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say God has something to say to me."

He left the table and walked out to the fields. "I'm here, Lord. I want to spend time with you."

Isaac listened. The wind blew as softly as a breath. Birds called out their evening songs. Isaac whispered, "Thank you, Lord for your promises given to my father. Thank you for giving us this land, our crops, and animals."

Suddenly, he saw a caravan of camels on the road walking toward his home. Isaac's heart jumped. "Could it be? No, It's not possible. Eliezer?" He squinted his eyes. "It looks like Eliezer. Eliezer?"

Isaac ran toward the caravan. "Eleizer? Is that you?"

He ran up the last hill then stopped to catch his breath.

The servant ordered the camels to stop.

A woman dismounted and waited next to the camel.

Isaac gazed at her.

Eliezer stepped forward. "Master Isaac, this is Rebekah. Her grandfather is your father's brother."

Isaac tried to keep the smile from popping on his face, but he couldn't. "Come, you must be tired from your journey. Have some food and tell me all that has happened."

Eliezer told Isaac his entire story about finding Rebekah and about her family and about the trip back home. "Master Isaac, only God could have made all these plans work as perfectly as they have."

Isaac glanced over at Rebekah and smiled. "I agree."

That night, Isaac married Rebekah. Neither one could keep away smiles or laughter. Truly God had blessed them.

God likes to bless His children. He chooses special times to give blessings, not because we earned them, but because He wants us to remember to praise Him as he deserves. Have you felt a sparkly, happy feeling inside? Who gave you that feeling? Did you find out why you felt that way? Click on the comment button and tell us. If you missed the other stories about Rebekah they are listed on the left side for you. Click on any story you'd like to read.

8+2+2... Bible Dot Game

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Print out the game. Connect the brown dots to the brown dots, black dots to black dots, blue dots to blue dots and yellow dots to yellow dots. Do not go criss cross. Color the shape. Color the area with "v" green. Add what should go on this object.



How did you do? What did you decide to add? Click the comment button to tell me.

Here is the answer to last week's Cryptogram:

My Journey to My New Home

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:59-65

Rebekah left her home with her parent's blessings. She and her maids mounted their camels and set out to find her prince. Eliezer led the way.

She turned back to the only home she had ever known and waved. "Good bye, Mother. Good bye, Father!" Rebekah lowered her arm and whispered, "Good bye, Laban. I shall miss you."

She faced forward and giggled. "I'm on my own adventure to a new land. I can't wait to meet my prince."

Being away from home felt exciting. Rebekah laughed and talked endlessly with her maids. They joked about Laban and tried to imagine what their new home would look like.

Day after day Rebekah stared at sand and sand and more sand. Occasionally Eliezer stopped by an oasis. The servants refilled water skins while Rebekah stretched her legs.

"Eliezer, tell me about the rest of our journey."

He bowed. "We'll climb the mountains you see in the distance. After several days journey we'll find my master's home."

"He truly lives a great distance away."

Eliezer smiled. "My master is a good man." He turned and walked away.

Rebekah turned to her maids. "He doesn't talk much."

They giggled together and walked back to the camels.

Climbing the mountains didn't seem as difficult as Rebekah imagined. Well warn roads through gentle passages proved easy for the camels to travel. The air smelled different. It was fresh and moist.

Rebekah took a deep breath to let scents of trees and flowers fill her lungs. "I'm going to like it here. I can't believe God has given me a land better than my dreams."

After traveling a few days in the mountain pass they reached a peak. Off in the distance she saw a great body of water. "Eliezer, what is that water?"

Eliezer slowed his camel. "That's the Salt Sea. We're near my master's house."

Rebekah's eyes widened. She pressed her hands together. "We are?"

"Yes." Eliezer urged his camel to move to the lead again.

Rebekah urged her camel to catch up. "Wait, Eliezer. Please. Tell me what does Isaac look like."

Her maids pressed their camels close to hear his answer.

"Well, he's strong. As you know, his father is old. Master Isaac chops and carries wood for the sacrifices."

Rebekah shook her head. "That's good, but what does he Look like?"

He stroked his beard and gazed ahead. "He has a keen sight. Why, he spots an animal before any other hunter I've know."

The maids giggled. Rebekah sighed. "Yes, yes. But what does he looook like?"

Eliezer cocked his head. "He's a great hunter. His father never waits long for meat. Why, I remember last year when Isaac found a bear. Best meat we ate all year."

The maids burst out laughing. Rebekah hushed them. "Dear Eliezer, is he tall, is his hair curly, tell me, what does he LOOK like."

He shrugged. "He looks like my Master."

Rebekah rolled her eyes and sighed. Suddenly she lifted her eyes and saw a man in the field walking toward them. "Who is that man, Eliezer?"

"Don't you recognize him? It is the man I've described to you. It is my master, Issac."

The maids leaped off their camels. "It's him! It's him!" They rushed to Rebekah and helped her down from her camel.

"Calm down girls. Quickly, give me my veil." They swirled the veil over her head and stepped back.

Rebekah stood tall while watching Isaac walk toward them. I'm home.

God cares about each of us. He has plans for our lives that may take us to far away places or keep us near or at our home. He may ask us to chop wood, work in a factory, sing in a choir, study in school or something else. What has he asked you to do? When you do your best in your job, how does your heart feel?

Rebekah's Farewell

By Mary Vee


Genesis 24: 54-58
Last time we talked about Rebekah's family agreeing to let her journey with Eliezer to marry Isaac. First, you need to know that parties were held on the roof of a house. This served like a family room. Around the edge of the roof was a railing, (called a parapet), to keep people from falling. Eliezer would like tell what happened next.

The smartest thing for me to do was to stand back.

Such noise! Laban teased his sister. Rebekah's mother danced around the house laughing and singing. The servants who came with me huddled back in a corner to keep their feet from being stepped on.

Rebekah's mother suddenly pushed her hands against her face like she forgot something. "Eliezer, bring your men to the table. Come, hurry, the food will get cold."

We squished together around the table and waited for the blessing.

I couldn't believe all the food on the table. Huge platters of lambs meat, goat stew, tabouli and grape leaves, freshly baked breads. My men and I hadn't seen a meal so fitting of our master in a long time. They smacked their lips then shoved handfuls of food into their mouth. I'll have to speak with them later about grunting and gulping when seated at a fine table.

Laban grabbed his glass, leaped to his feet and laughed. "A toast to Isaac. May he find peace even though he'll be married to my sister."

We raised our glasses and shouted, "To Life, L'Chaim."

Bethuel squinted his eyes at his son and signaled for him to sit down.

After Laban slithered back into his seat, Bethuel grabbed his glass and stood. "May God bring blessing to my uncle Abraham and his family. May his son, Isaac, find true happiness with my beautiful Rebekah."

Everyone stood and held their glass high, "L'Chaim."

We danced and sang, and of course Laban had a story to tell. He climbed up on the parapet, "Listen everyone."

Rebekah nodded her head at her brother. She turned and sneaked down the stairs.

Laban bowed. "One day, years ago, as I set out to hunt, I found myself in an awkward situation. I wanted to impress my father by bringing home the finest kill, a wild boar.

After tracking for hours, I came upon a clearing. There the boar stood. My foot shifted and a twig snapped." Laban paused. He searched his audience as though looking for someone.

He sighed. "The boar broke into a run, straight for me. I froze."

For the first time that evening, his face grew serious. "Someone grabbed my tunic and yanked me out of the way. I looked up and saw Rebekah. She pushed me and signaled to follow her. Later, I asked her what she was doing away from the house. She said, 'I wanted to see what you were doing.' I may tease my sister a lot, but I'll never forget the day she saved me from the boar."

He turned his head toward the stairs and shouted loudly, "Rebekah, if there ever comes a time that you need my help. Maybe a son of yours will need protection, whatever it is, you can count on me."

With those words, he stepped down.

The next morning, I went to the family and asked permission to return to my master. Laban and Rebekah's mother asked if she could stay a few days before she went.

I couldn't bear to wait another minute. Abraham, my master is waiting, I have chores, my family is waiting; I can't wait. "Do not hinder me since the Lord has prospered my way; let me return to my master."

They looked at each other then said, "We'll call Rebekah and see what she says."

Rebekah came a moment later. She listened to her mother and Laban then looked at me. "I will go."

She twirled over to her mother. "Oh, Mama. This is what I've wanted. He will be my prince, I can feel it in my heart. I'm so happy. Please say I can go today, this morning."

Her mother put her hands on Rebekah's face. "My lovely daughter, I shall miss you."

Rebekah hugged her mother. She wiped and laughed. "Thank you, Mama."

She ran back to her room to pack and I prepared the camels.

Sometimes we need to say good bye to people. We have a new adventure in front of us. God knows we are ready to do something new. How does it feel?

What Was Rebekah's Dad's Answer?

By Mary Vee

Today's puzzle is a cryptogram puzzle. To solve the puzzle you must figure out the code for the alphabet then put the correct letters in the blanks below. Some letters have been given to help you start. Scroll down to see last week's solution.

Rebekah's Dad and Brother Said "Yes"

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:32-54
In our last story, Rebekah's brother, Laban, ran out to the city well and invited Eliezer, Abraham's servant, and the other servants to his home.

Laban led the camels to the stable, ducking each time they spat. He unloaded all the bundles, and set out plenty of straw and feed.

When he finished, Laban wiped his hands on his tunic and turned toward the house. "Follow me, my Father will be excited to hear your news."

Once inside, Laban walked over to the table. "My mother has prepared a meal." "You and your men may sit over here."

Eliezer cleared his throat. "Actually, I'd rather not eat until I've given my message."

Bethuel, Rebekah's father, nodded. "Don't worry, Laban. That's fine."

Eliezer bowed in respect. "I am Abraham's servant. The Lord has blessed my master with great wealth."

A servant yelled at a donkey in the front yard to get back to the stable. The donkey squawked and brayed. Eliezer leaned forward and spoke loudly about Abraham, his journey, and his prayer at the well.

He shook his head and put his hands on his face. "Do you know what happened? Before I finished speaking in my heart, there was Rebekah walking toward the well."

Laban rolled his eyes and mumbled, "She should have waited for him to stop speaking. But no, my sister always has to be first."

Eliezer sighed. "Now, tell me. What do you think?"

No one spoke.

Suddenly, Laban's stomach grumbled. I wish Father would make a decision. I'm starved. He leaned over and whispered, "Seems like a good idea."

"I don't know if this is good or bad, but I think the Lord is clearly speaking to us." Bethuel stroke his beard.

A moment later he nodded and stood. "You may take Rebekah to be your master's son's wife as the Lord has spoken."

Eliezer fell to the ground and worshiped the Lord. "Thank you, O God of my master, Abraham."

"Wait. I have gifts." He ran to one of his bags and jammed his arm deep inside. "Yes, here it is." Eliezer unpacked silver and gold jewelry and beautiful clothing. "These are for your daughter."

Before Bethuel called, Rebekah ran out to the living room. "You called, Father?"

He shook his head. "I would have called if you would have given me the chance. Very well, you may have your gifts."

Eliezer set his bag on the floor and handed her the jewelry and clothing.

She bowed graciously. "Thank you." Rebekah brushed the soft material against her cheek and laughed. "What beautiful gifts." She twirled around the living room, holding each new treasure close to her.

Laban rolled his eyes. "Girls."

Eliezer dug into his bag and unpacked precious gifts for Laban and their mother.

Tears came to her eyes. "Oh, Betheul. Look."

He nodded. "Very nice."

Laban sneaked behind his sister and tickled her. She spun around to face him. At that moment he saw a sparkle in her eyes. "I'm happy for you, Sis."

Can you count how many pieces of the story about Rebekah God clearly planned? Hmmm..don't forget Eliezer's prayer asking God to send the right girl to say the right thing, and then...click the comment button to say what else God did.

Pesky Brothers

By Mary Vee

Genesis24:29-32
Last time we talked about Eliezer giving Rebekah a gold ring and gold bracelets. She ran home to show her family the wonderful gifts.

Laban, Rebekah's brother, wiped his forehead. "What a hot day to split wood." He set the freshly cut log on the wood pile. As he reached for another chunk of wood, he noticed his sister running toward the house. He looked closer and saw her friends weren't with her. There must be something wrong. His ax fell from his hand, just missing his foot. "Rebekah!"

"Laban, Laban, look what I have!" Rebekah waved her wrist in front of his face.

"Wait just a minute. Who gave you these bracelets and the ring? Who's this person?" Laban rolled up his sleeves. "I'll teach this stranger to fool my sister. Where is he?"

Laban paced a few steps, turned and glared at his sister. "Why do you listen to strangers? He could be a thief."

He pushed her off the path. "Step aside. I'll take care of him."

Rebekah tried to slow her breathing. She shook her head and laughed. "You don't understand. No one was mean to me."

Laban stomped up the path. "Yeah, sure. Is he at the well?"

"Wait!" Rebekah pulled her skirt tight around her feet and ran after her brother. "You must listen." She took two more breaths. "Yes, there's a man at the well. He's the servant of Grandfather's brother."

Laban stopped. He studied her eyes to decide if she was telling the truth. "Abram's servant is out at the well?"

"Yes! But his servant called him Abraham. He must have changed his name."

"And you left him out there? Rebekah what were you thinking?" He shook his finger at her. "You can't leave servants who probably have important messages from family members out at the well. Do I have to do everything myself?"

He ran out to the well. There he found a finely dressed servant standing by ten magnificent camels. Nine servants stood humbly nearby. Ooooo, Rebekah is going to be in so much trouble when Dad and Mom find out she left these people at the well.

He swallowed and took a few steps near the servant. "I understand you met my sister."

The servant nodded.

"Please forgive us, for you are blessed of the Lord. Please, come to our home. Our house is prepared for you."

Laban turned to lead the way to the house. "Come, my parents will want to hear all your news about Abraham."

Eliezer commanded the servants and camels to follow. "Very good. I have important news to tell them."

Looks like Laban cared about his sister after all. He showed, in his brotherly way, that he didn't want her to get hurt. I have a brother like that. God brings many different people in our lives who care about us. Think about the people in your life. Yup, even the ones who are pesky. Can you find at least one time when someone showed they cared about you? Did you just giggle?

Can Rebekah Find Her Prince? Crossword Puzzle

By Mary Vee

FIND ANSWERS TO THIS WEEK'S PUZZLE IN GENESIS 24. Scroll Down to find last weeks answer


Across
1. Rebekah's home
5. Was Eliezer allowed to take Isaac on the trip?
6. Relationship between Rebekah's grandfather and Eliezer's master
7. What Eliezer touched to make his promise
9. Animals Eliezer took to Rebekah's family
11. Bethuel was Rachel's
13 What Rebekah carried
14. Abraham's son

Down
2. Number of camels Eliezer took
3. Eliezer's master
4. One of the gifts given to Rebekah
8. Eliezer's gifts were made of
9. people from which Eliezer should not find a wife for Abraham's son
10. direction Eliezer travelled
12. Rebekah poured water into

Rebekah Went to Fetch Water and Found Gold

By Mary Vee

Rebekah's two friends stood at the end of the path outside Rebekah's house. Their water jugs wabbled on their shoulders .

"Rebekah. Ready to go to the well?"

"Uh huh."

"She's dancing again, Hava."

"Dancing with a water jug, Deborah. That girl needs a husband."

"And we don't?"

"Of course we do."

Rebekah danced in between her friends and linked arms. "Come now, you know I'll settle for nothing less than a prince."

The three friends burst out laughing.

They joked and laughed all the way along the path leading out of the city.

Rebekah pulled her arms free from her friends and sprinted ahead a few steps. "Race you there."

The wind blew through her hair. She twirled around once than slowed to a walk. "The air smells good. I could stay out here all day."

As she neared the well, she noticed a traveler with several camels resting. "Hmmm, I wonder what brings him to our city. I wonder where he's been, where he's going, what he's seen. Oh, how I wish I could travel and see other places."

She went down to the well, filled her pitcher and came up. Suddenly she noticed the servant running to meet her. He must need help.

The traveler stopped a few steps from her. "Please, please, may I have a little drink of water from your pitcher?"

Rebekah looked at his his face. Poor man, he looks so thirsty. "Yes, of course, drink, my lord." She quickly let her pitcher down and gave him a drink.

He smiled and drank some more. "Thank you. This water is good. You're very kind."

Rebekah raised her pitcher to her shoulder. His camels must be as thirsty as he is, poor things. "I'd be happy to draw water for your camels, if you wish."

Rebekah didn't give him a chance to respond. She ran over to the trough and emptied her pitcher. Those poor creatures, they've drank the water I just poured, already. She ran back to the well to draw water again and again until the camels stopped dinking.

She wiped sweat off her face with her sleeve. Rebekah laughed when the camels plopped down to rest. "That's much better."

Rebekah sat down under the tree to rest. She watched the traveler reach into a satchel. He dug around for a minute then pulled out a ring and two bracelets. Oh, dear, this is a wealthy traveler. Who have I met this day?

The traveler gently walked near her. "This is a gift for you."

Rebekah could hardly breathe. "For me, my lord?"

The traveler smiled. "You have been so kind to me. Whose daughter are you? Tell me, please, is there room in your father's house for us to stay for the night?"

Rebekah looked back at her friends who were filling their pitchers then back at the traveler. "My father is Bethuel. His parents are Milcah and Nahor. We have both straw and feed enough for your camels and a room for you to rest."

The traveler bowed his head and worshipped the Lord. "Blessed be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who has led me to the house of my master's brethren."

Rebekah's mouth fell open. "You are the servant of Grandpa's brother, Abraham? Oh, wait 'til my family hears about this. Come on. I can't wait to tell my family."

Rebekah ran ahead as fast as she could without spilling water from her pitcher.

Sometimes when we do something nice for someone, we find out our good deed has helped more than we realized. Sometimes when we do a good deed we receive a reward we can touch. But everytime we do a good deed, God will give us a sparkly, joyful feeling inside that makes us smile, or jump, or dance. Do a kind deed and see!

Rebekah's Wish for a Prince

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:15
Last time we left Eliezer with his master's camels and servants near a well. He found the city of Nahor as Abraham asked him to do. While he settled down to rest and began a prayer to God asking for help to find the right wife for Isaac, Rebekah finished her mending in her home at the nearby city.

Rebekah shook the skirt she mended and tipped her head. "Good, can't see the hole." She shoved the needle and thread back in the sewing box.

"Rebekah, help me with this goat stew," her mother called. "After we prepare the meat and vegetables, it can cook while you get the water."

Rebekah grabbed a knife and some vegetables and found a clean spot on the counter to work. "Mother, do you think I'll ever find the perfect husband?"

Her mother wiped her hands on her apron. "You could marry Lavi the spice merchant."

Rebekah laughed. "Sure, and bring him his cane every morning. Mother, he's too old."

"True, but you'd never go hungry marrying a wealthy man like him."

Rebekah sighed. "I know, but isn't there more to life than being wealthy?"

"You don't complain about your life here." Her mother sliced a few pieces of meat and dropped them in the pot. "Your father has given you much."

"He has given me a good life here." Rebekah gazed out the window at her father, Bethuel, and laughed. "He's chasing that silly brother of mine. Laban probably hid his favorite tool again."

Rebekah chopped the last piece of vegetable. "Sometimes I wonder, what would it be like to go on a long journey and see someplace new? Maybe my husband is in a far off country waiting for me. Maybe he's an heir to a great kingdom. What if he's part of a great plan that would bring peace to everyone?"

Rebekah twirled around and gave her mother a hug. "Do you think it's possible?"

Her mother dropped the last piece of meat into the pot and laughed. "You, my daughter, are so beautiful. How is it that you have such wild dreams?"

"Oh, I don't know. I really do love being near my family." Rebekah twirled over to the window and leaned on the edge. "It's just--I feel something in my heart. I want to go on an adventure out there, somewhere, to meet my special prince."

"Until that day should ever come, bring me the vegetables for the pot. And hurry, I see your friends coming up the road. You need to grab your water jug and get going to the well."

Rebekah chuckled and dropped the vegetables into the pot. She hummed a tune as she twirled over to the water jug. She scooped it up and danced with it out the door. "Good bye, Mother. I love you."

Sometimes God gives us wishes to help us want to do what is in His plan. One day I saw a movie about being a missionary in Mexico. Suddenly I wanted to go more than I wanted to do anything else. My father said, "No." I didn't have any money to pay for the trip. My friends prayed and prayed. They prayed every day. God supplied the money. My friends kept praying with me for God to change my dad's heart. One day my dad said I could go. When I was in Mexico I handed a paper with a Bible story written on it to a man in the city. He stopped, read the story, and said "Thank You." I never saw the man again. Sometimes I wonder if he ever heard anything else about God.

Has God given you a wish? Press the comment button and tell me.

Abraham Scramble Game

By Mary Vee

Directions: Unscramble each of the clue words. Copy the letters in the numbered cells to the cells at the bottom with the same number to see the secret message. SCROLL DOWN FOR ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S OLD TESTAMENT MAZE



Answer key to Last Week's Old Testament Maze

God Likes to Trust us with Big Jobs

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:10-15
Eliezer looked to the north. "I have a long journey. My master, Abraham, made me promise I would go to the city of Nahor to find a wife for his son, Isaac. He actually trusted me to do this great task!"

He looked at the ten camels and the servants traveling with him. "He trusted me with his best."

Eliezer stuffed the paper listing all his master's possessions in the pouch hung around his neck. "Better keep this safe. I'll need to show this as proof when I arrive in Nahor."

He traveled through mountains, streams, valleys, and deserts for many days. For four hundred miles he and the servants followed Abraham's instructions.

One evening, around supper time, Eliezer came to a well outside the city of Nahor.

"We're here! At last, we're here." He herded the camels by the well and made them kneel. "We will wait to drink," Eliezer commanded.

He knew women from the city went to the well to get water for their families in the evening. Eliezer didn't want to be in the way. He also knew people from the city took their water from the well before travelers could draw water. He stayed back to not be in the way.

Soon he saw a group of women in the distance. Eliezer felt nervous. "They're coming for water."

He took a deep breath. "How will I know which woman is the right one for Isaac?

He stroked his beard. "I know, I shall pray to my master's God."

He knelt near the camels. "O Lord God of my master Abraham, please give me success this day, and show kindness to my master Abraham. Here I stand by the well. The women from the city are coming to draw water. Let it be, that the young woman to whom I say, 'Please let me have a drink,' and she then says 'Drink, and I will also give your camels a drink'-let her be the one You have chosen for Your servant Isaac."

Eliezer looked up at the beautiful blue sky. "And, Lord, let me know by all of this that you have shown kindness to my master."

Before Eliezer finished speaking, Rebekah came to the well with a pitcher on her shoulder.

God loves us so much that He trusts us with big jobs, shows us the way to do the job, and helps us to be successful. Can you think of a time God gave you a big job to do? What happened?

Eliezer, Trusted Servant of Abraham

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:1-9
Abraham groaned when the sun rose one morning. His arms ached. His legs ached. He rubbed his eyes and looked around his tent for his cane. Everything looked blurry.

Eliezer opened the tent flap and stepped inside. "I see you're awake already. I brought you some food and drink. Do you want to eat in here or out at the table?"

Abraham rubbed his back. "I'll eat out there. Maybe the fresh air and sunshine will soothe my bones."

"Very well. Here's your cane. Do you need help?"

"No, my friend." Abraham chuckled then coughed twice. "I may be older than 137 years, but I think I can find my way out of this tent."

Abraham yawned and pushed himself up with his cane. "Sure wish my Sarah was here. She'd laugh and call me 'old man'. She sure knew how to keep me moving."

He hobbled out the tent and over to the table.

Abraham leaned against the edge of the table and motioned for Eliezer to come closer. "Eliezer, Isaac is old enough to have a wife. He's almost 40 years old. I don't want him to take a wife from this land. The women here do not worship the true God."

Eliezer nodded. "I understand. But what then would you have me do?"

Abraham gazed up at the morning sunrise. Golden sun rays reached far to the east. "You have been my most trusted servant for years. Please, put your hand under my thigh and promise me in the name of the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of the earth that you will go to my country and to my family, and find a wife for my son Isaac."

"You want me to travel all the way to Mesopotamia? What if the woman I find will not come with me back here? I suppose I could get Isaac and take him back to Mesopotamia to find a wife."

Abraham shook his head. "Oh, no, no, don't do that. Isaac must not go back there. The Lord God of heaven clearly told me this is the land He wanted us to have. Isaac must stay here."

Abraham gazed into his servants eyes. "Don't worry. God will send His angel before you. You will find the right girl. And, if she isn't willing to come here and marry Isaac, then you will be free from this promise. You must not take Isaac back there."

Eliezer bowed in respect. He placed his hand under his master's thigh and promised to do everything Abraham asked.

Abraham clapped his hands together. "Good. Now I can eat my meal."

Abraham knew he could trust his servant Eliezer to do what he promised. We also know that we can trust God to do all that He promises. But here is the question. Will you be a trusted servant for God like Eliezer was for Abraham?

Old Testament Book Maze

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS FOR TODAY'S MAZE
Follow the maze. Choose the path that puts the Old Testament books in order. Only the first letter of each book is given. If a book has first and second in the name like I Samuel and II Samuel then there will be a letter for each book, one for first and one for second. The answer will be published next week.

Abraham Lost His Best Friend

By Mary Vee

Genesis 23
Abraham's best friend on earth had to be Sarah, his wife. She lived with him longer than anyone else he knew. She laughed with him when they found out they would have a baby, she hiked with him through the promised land, she did whatever she could to make him happy.

Sarah was 127 years old when she died.

Abraham cried. He sat down beside her and thought of all the things they did together throughout the years. Tears poured down his cheeks.

His servant offered him food and drink, but he didn't want anything. He missed his Sarah.

Men who had lived in the land heard about Sarah's death. They came to visit Abraham. The men walked close to Abraham and waited for him to notice them.

Abraham lifted his head and looked at them. His eyes were red. Tears clung to his face. He sobbed.

One man said, "Abraham, you are a mighty prince among us. In all the years you have lived here, we have come to know and trust you. Please, accept our gift. Take any of our best pieces of land to bury Sarah."

All the other men nodded in agreement.

Abraham's servant helped him stand. His back hurt, his knees hurt, and he felt very tired. He took a sleeve and wiped his face. "Thank you for your kindness. Please let me have the cave of Machpelah which is at the end of Ephron's field. Tell me the full price. I will pay for the property."

Ephron stepped forward. "No, my lord, please, you must let me give you the field and the cave. Before all these witnesses I say I am giving you the land. You owe me nothing. Please accept my gift."

Abraham was a wealthy man. He had plenty of money to pay for the land. He realized Ephron wanted to give the land out of respect and honor. Ephron was not rich. To take the gift from him would be wrong. Also, Abraham didn't want any of the men from that land to say they were the ones who made Abraham rich. He knew God gave him all that he owned.

Ephron looked at Abraham's eyes. "You really want to pay for the land, don't you? Well, if you must know, the land is worth 400 shekels of silver."

Abraham took out his money. He weighed the silver until he had the right amount and gave it to Ephron. "Thank you for letting me buy the cave and the field."

Before all the witnesses, Ephron gave the paper to Abraham saying he owned the field and cave at Machpelah.

Abraham and his servants carried his best friend, and wife, Sarah, to the cave and buried her.

Even though he thought of her, and oftentimes heard her voice in his memory, he knew in his heart that she was with God and that he would see her again someday.

Sometimes we lose our friends, they move away, or they leave in other ways. It's OK to cry when they leave. The Bible tells us Jesus cried, do you remember when and why? But after we cry for a while, we need to keep doing the things God wants us to do. Don't forget your friends. Keep caring about them while you do the things God has for you to do.

God Will Provide For You

By Mary Vee

Genesis 22:8-19
God told Abraham to take Isaac up to a certain place on a mountain. I want to tell you this really cool fact I found before I continue the story. This very place that God told Abraham and Isaac to go was the same place the Temple was built many, many years later. This is the same Temple place Jesus went into as a boy and later as a man. I think it is amazing just how much the Bible is like many puzzle pieces that all come together to tell God's story....HIStory. Now, back to our story.

Abraham and Isaac found the place God told them to go. They gathered rocks and built an altar for their sacrifice to God. Abraham wiped the sweat off his forehead and took a drink of water.

The sky was clear and the air smelled of many flowers. Abraham listened. There wasn't any sound. No small animals scurrying around; no larger animals shifting in the bushes.

Isaac looked around. "There are no animals for the sacrifice."

Abraham nodded. "God has always provided for us."

Isaac tipped his head like he was thinking. Then he gave a little smile. "You're right, He has."

Abraham spoke with Isaac for a few more minutes.

God had told Abraham to sacrifice his son. Abraham knew that God would have a special reason for this command. He believed in God so much that he decided he would do anything God asked. No matter what.

Abraham gently bound Isaac and laid him on the altar. Abraham reached over and pulled out his knife to kill his son like God asked.

Suddenly the Angel of the Lord called to him from heaven. "Abraham, Abraham!"

Abraham's hand froze. He took a deep breath. "Here I am."

The Angel of the Lord said, "Don't do anything to Isaac. I now know that you honor me and respect me with all your heart since you have not withheld your son, your only son from Me.

Abraham suddenly saw a ram caught in thick bushes. He sighed then quickly untied Isaac.

"Come help me, Son" Abraham was so happy he laughed as he pulled Issac near him. "Let's get the ram God has provided."

He and Isaac took the ram and offered it as a sacrifice to God. They stood back and watched the sacrifice burn. Abraham turned to Isaac, "I will call this place, Yireh, The-Lord-Will-Provide, for God did provided, just like I knew He would."

Suddenly a voice came from heaven again, "Abraham, because you have done what I asked and have not withheld you son, your only son, I will bless you because you obeyed me."

So Abraham and Isaac hiked back to the place where they left the two men then they all hiked back home. Sometimes Abraham skipped. Sometimes Abraham giggled.

God had provided.

Has God provided for you in a special way? Click on the comment button to share.

Genesis 21-22 Word Puzzle

By Mary Vee




Abraham
Beersheba
Donkey
Friends
Isaac
Laugh
Moriah
Servants
Thirsty
Well
Wilderness
Wood

God Gives Tests

By Mary Vee

Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac lived rather well. They had lots of servants, lots of cattle and sheep, and plenty of wells. Who could ask for anything more? When everything is going well for us God wants to know if we still are really thinking about Him. Sometimes God gives us a test like our teachers do at school.

Abraham looked at the stars. "So many stars tonight."

The clear night sky showed thousands of stars. Suddenly Abraham heard a voice.

"Abraham," God said.

Abraham looked around to see where the voice came from. "Here I am."

"I want you to take Isaac up to the mountain which I will tell you and offer him to me as a sacrifice."

Abraham went back to his tent and thought about God's command all that night. Hours later colors from the sunrise peeked through the windows. Abraham sighed. "I can't sleep. May as well get up and get to work."

He put a saddle on his donkey and packed food and water. "I'll get the wood chopped and tied to the donkey then get the others."

When he finished he quietly went to Isaac's bed. "Wake up, Son. We're going up the mountain to offer a sacrifice to God."

Isaac stretched and yawned. "Can't I sleep a few more minutes?"

"No, Son. We have a long journey. Tell you what, you get ready while I wake the two men I've chosen to go with us. Five minutes, OK?"

"Yah, sure, Dad."

The group set out walking to the east. They hiked up mountain trails for two days. On the third day Abraham looked up the mountain trail and saw the place God told him to go.

Abraham stopped for a drink. He untied the wood from the donkey. "You two men stay with the donkey. I want to worship God alone with Isaac. When we're finished, we'll come back to you."

Abraham could hardly breathe. The walk up the mountain made his heart beat faster. Even though he was tired, Abraham decided he would obey God no matter what God asked him to do. But, this...this command was so very difficult.

Isaac looked at Abraham. "Are you well? Here, let me carry the wood."

"Yes, I'm fine. Thank you, I appreciate your help."

Abraham used the rope to tie the wood onto Isaac's back then he led the way up the trail.

As they walked Isaac said, "We have everything for the sacrifice, except the lamb."

In between deep breaths Abraham answered, "God will provide for Himself the right lamb for the sacrifice. Look, over there, we're almost to the place."

What will happen next? We'll finish this story in the next post, on Wednesday. Stories like this are hard to tell because someone might not understand that a great ending is coming. I think this story is going to tell us that God wants us to always remember to show Him we love Him whether we're having a good day or a bad day. What do you think?

Friends are Kind, Friends Forgive.

By Mary Vee

Abraham is still living near Gerar, a city on the southwest side of the Promised Land. Abimelech is still king. The people who live in the area are called Philistines. Sound familiar?

One day King Abimelech called Phichol, the commander of his army, for a meeting. "Do you remember the man, Abraham, who came to live in our city several years ago?"

"Why yes, my liege. He's prospered here in our land. I've kept an eye on him. His cattle and sheep have increased tremendously, as well as the number of his servants."

"Yes, I've seen the same progress and it concerns me. Clearly his God is with him. What if his servants fight with our people and a war is started. Will his God destroy our people?"

"What would you have me do, my liege?"

"Let's pay him a visit."

They rode out to Abraham's camp and met with him outside his tent. Abimelech looked around the camp. "I've seen proof that your God is with you. You've prospered in our land. Promise me, you'll not cause any harm to me, my officials, or my family. Also promise to treat me as kindly as I've treated you for as long as you live here."

Abraham ran his fingers through his beard. "I promise. You've been very kind to me and I'm grateful. And for this reason, I'd like to tell you about a problem. Not too long ago my servants dug a well. Some of your servants attacked my men and stole the well. They've kept guards around the area to prevent us from taking any water."

"I don't know who's done this thing. This is the first time I've been told!" Abimelech turned to Phichol. "Did you know about this?"

"No, my liege."

Abraham signaled to his servant to bring sheep and oxen. Abraham took the animals and gave them to Abimelech. He set seven of the ewe lambs in front. "King Abimelech accept this gift as a covenant of my friendship. These lambs are set aside as a special gift to show I've dug the well we spoke about."

Abimelech smiled. "I'm thankful for this great gift and believe your word. Let's remain friends in this land. I'll see the well is returned to you."

Abimelech and Phichol returned to the palace. The next day Phichol received word that Abraham planted a new Tamarisk tree at the place they met. The note said Abraham named the tree Beersheba, which means "called on the name of the Lord, the Everlasting God".

Sometimes friends forget to be kind, sometimes friends need to forgive. Can you think of a time you needed to forgive a friend? Can you think of a time a friend needed to forgive you? How did Abraham's friendship with Abimelech turn out?

Genesis Secret Code Puzzle

By Mary Vee

Scroll down past today's puzzle to see the answer to last week's puzzle.
Directions for today's puzzle: Follow the path leading around Israel to discover "who" did "what". Go to each location only once. Place the letters in the blank along the bottom of the puzzle to learn the secret message.



Here is the solution to last week's puzzle: Elam's Army

I'm So Thirsty and There is No Water

By Mary Vee

In our last post Abraham hugged and waved goodbye to Ishmael.
Hagar didn't know which direction to go. She started walking to the southeast into the wilderness. A few hours later she and Ishmael stopped for a break.

Ishmael rubbed the sweat from his forehead. "Mom, where are we going?"

"I'm not quite sure." She handed him the water. "Don't drink too much, this is all we have until we find more."

He took a few gulps and swiped his face. "That no good half-brother of mine is going to inherit everything."

Hagar sighed. She gazed at the huge wilderness before them. It was so quiet. She only heard the screech of a vulture. "We better keep moving. Maybe there's a village over the next ridge."

They walked and walked for hours. As the sun set Ishmael gathered wood and made a fire to keep warm. Jackals, hyenas, and wolves called out in the night. Hagar held the last of the bread close to her. She tried to sleep, but couldn't.

Ishmael shouted out in his sleep, "I wish you were never born, Isaac!" He swung his arms as if punching someone. Hagar pressed her hand gently on his shoulder to calm him.

The next morning they each took a small drink before continuing their journey. For two days they suffered in the heat and found no water.

Hagar noticed a shrub up ahead. "We'll rest from the heat over there."

When they arrived, Ishmael collapsed on the ground and tried to wet his lips. "I'm so thirsty."

Hagar turned and walked several feet away. She had nothing to give him. When she cried, no tears dripped from her eyes because she was thirsty too.

Hagar fell to the ground, hid her head in the sand, and shouted, "Why won't anyone help us?"

She took a breath. Suddenly Ishmael spoke, but not to her. "Oh, God of my father Abraham, I've sinned. I hurt baby Isaac, I know I shouldn't have. I have been cruel to him. This is all my fault. Forgive me. Please, forgive me."

Hagar raised her head and gazed at her son.

The angel of God suddenly spoke from heaven. "Hagar what's wrong? Don't be afraid. God has heard the voice of the lad where he is. Arise and take care of him, for I will make him a great nation."

Hagar rubbed her sleeve across her face and blinked. "Ishmael, oh Ishmael, look behind you--a short ways beyond that bush--can you see?" She gathered her skirt and the empty water skin then ran as fast as she could beyond the bush to a well filled with water.

God took care of Hagar and Ishmael throughout their time in the wilderness. Life wasn't easy, but God continued to care for them until Ishmael finally apologized for hurting Isaac. Do you know which story in the New Testament talks about Jesus giving special water? Click on the comment button to tell me.

Ishmael

By Mary Vee

Genesis 21:8-14
In our last story, Sarah saw Ishmael picking on baby Isaac. Ishmael was seventeen-years-old at this time and Isaac was three. Sarah told Abraham what she saw.

"Look, Husband, Ishmael can't be trusted. He could have hurt Isaac. He and his mother must go, they have to go now. I won't have him trying to take away Isaac's inheritance."

"Sarah, my lovely wife, be reasonable. Ishmael is my son."

Sarah went in the tent and refused to speak to Abraham the rest of the night.

While Abraham rested, God spoke to him. "Abraham, don't be sad about sending Ishmael and his mother away. You need to listen to Sarah. My promises to you will come to pass through Isaac. I know how much you love Ishmael. For this reason I will also make a nation from him because he is your son."

The next morning, Abraham awoke before the rooster crowed. He packed bread and water, visited Hagar and then went to Ishmael's tent.

"Ishmael, wake up."

"Yes?"

"I must speak with you." Abraham sat on a nearby chair. "I just came from your mother's tent. I told her the message I received from God last night, now I must tell you."

"OK. What is it?"

"Well, you understand how I feel about obeying God's commands." Abraham picked up a stick from the floor and twirled it around in his hand.

"Yes. You obey God because you love Him."

"Very true. God has asked me to send you and your mother away from here." Abraham took a deep breath. "God said he would make a nation from you because you are my son; but I must first send you and your mother away. You must go this morning. Hagar is packing right now."

Suddenly the tent door opened. Hagar pressed her head inside. "Come Ishmael. Time to go."

Abraham hugged Ishmael. "God be with you both."

At times, God asks us to to do difficult things. God asked Abraham to leave his home and travel to a new place. Abraham obeyed. This is another time God asked Abraham to do something difficult. Abraham obeyed. Perhaps God is asking you to do something difficult like being nice to someone who is mean, doing a chore you don't want to do, or something else. What can we do to help us want to obey?

King Elam's Puzzle

By Mary Vee

King Elam kidnapped Lot. When Uncle Abraham discovered what King Elam did, he took an army of his men and with God's leading and power, conquered King Elam. He saved Lot and the other prisoners from Sodom. Here is the battlefield. You are Abraham. Put each of King Elam's soldiers into his own box by drawing as few straight lines as possible. The lines are allowed to cross. This puzzle can be done with five lines. Do you want the answer? Click on comment and tell me. I won't spoil the game by telling you before you are ready. Have fun:)

Abraham and Ishmael

By Mary Vee

Genesis 21:8,9

Abraham had two sons now. Baby Isaac spent most of his time with his mama, Sarah. She fed him, kept him clean, held him when he cried, and laid him down for naps.

Abraham spent some time with baby Isaac, too. He noticed baby Isaac's first tooth. He yanked his finger away and cried "Ouch!" when Isaac bit him after other teeth came.

But, Abraham liked spending more of his time teaching Ishmael how to care for the sheep and cattle. Now that Ishmael was fourteen years old he understood pieces of the family business.

"Ishmael, take this message to the servants in the field, then bring back firewood."

"Yes, Father."

Abraham nodded. "You're doing a fine job."

When baby Isaac turned three, Abraham and Sarah gave him a special party. The servants came and maybe a few neighbors to celebrate Isaac's birthday.

During the party Ishmael watched for a second when Isaac stood alone.

After the meal, Isaac suddenly shouted, "Bird!" He ran to a tree. "Bird!"

Ishmael glanced around. No one was watching the little boy. He crept over to Isaac and gave him a shove. "Hey, flea. You may think you're important, but you're not. I'm the oldest. I'm the one who will get our father's business. When he dies, I'm going to--"

Abraham called from the other side of the tent. "Ishmael, get our best ram. I want to show him off."

"Yes, Father." Ishmael squinted his eyes at Isaac. "He may have saved you this time, but he's too old to see everything."

Ishmael shoved Isaac one last time then ran to the field, proud of his high position in the family.

Sarah smiled at a guest. "Excuse me, I'll be right back."

She walked over to the tree and hugged Isaac. "What do you see?"

Little Isaac sniffed and rubbed his eye. He pointed up in the tree. "Bird."

"Yes, there is a birdie up there." She held Isaac's hand and walked him back to the party.

That night, Sarah told Abraham what happened.

Have you ever had someone pick on you? We don't often realize that God is watching over us even when others are cruel. God promises to take care of you. Will you share a time when God helped you or someone you know, or someone from the Bible.

God Likes to Make You Laugh

By Mary Vee

At the end of the last story, Abraham apologized for lying to King Abimelech. He felt happy in his heart that God forgave Him.

Abraham sat outside his tent and stoked the fire. A breeze blew the tall grasses in the fields. Even with his old eyes he could see the mountain where he use to live off in the distance. He took a sip of water and leaned back in his chair. "Ahhhh, life is good. God has blessed my family beyond what I could ever ask."

"Aaaa hem," Sarah cleared her throat. "Husband, I have unusual news for you."

"Yes?"

"I'm, going to have a baby."

Abraham blinked his eyes and shook his head. "You're what?"

Sarah giggled then laughed. Her eyes twinkled. "It's true! God said we would have a child, and look, I'm really going to have a baby."

Abraham jumped from his chair and grabbed her arms. He swung her around, dancing to the left and right. He laughed. "Imagine that, a ninety-year old mother and a one-hundred-year old father." He chuckled and swung her around a few more times then they both plopped down in their chairs by the fire.

"Up on that very mountain in the distance the Lord told us we would have a baby in one year from that time." Sarah wiped a tear of joy then giggled. "He kept His promise."

Abraham nodded. "I think we should name him Isaac."

"Isaac means laughter, what a good idea, Husband. I'm sure everyone who hears that we old people are having a baby will burst out laughing." Sarah propped her feet up on a rock.

Abraham chuckled as he leaned over to stir the fire. "Just wait until Lot hears about this....ha, ha, he, he, ho, ho." They both burst out laughing.

God always keeps His promises. Sometimes they surprise us. What promise can you think of that God kept? Click on the comment button

Genesis People, Places Crossword Puzzle I

By Mary Vee

Across
1. God asked him to go on a boat ride
4. floating house
5. city where Lot lived
6. other city destroyed by God
8. first person killed
10. Noah's oldest son
11. lived in King Abimelech's palace
15. God told him to go, didn't say where
17. Adam and Eve's first home
Down
2. first man
3. Hagar's son
7. Sarah's servant
9. Abraham's nephew
12. Noah's second son
13. Noah's youngest son
14. killed his brother
16. Abraham's mountaintop home

You can find the answers in stories already posted on this site. CLICK COMMENT AND TELL ME IF YOU DID IT....PUHLEEZE. :) <

Abraham Lied

By Mary Vee

Abraham decided he and Sarah needed to move. No one really knows why. Who wouldn't love a mountain top view? Maybe Abraham felt he didn't need to watch over his nephew Lot anymore. Maybe his servants couldn't find enough pasture for the animals.

He and Sarah moved southwest to a valley with great pastureland called Gerar. After arriving, they set up their tent and gave directions to their workers to arrange the camp. They found the marketplace and planted a garden.

King Abimelech happened to see the new people in town. "Hi! Welcome to Gerar. Tell me who you are."

Abraham felt nervous. He decided to lie. "My name is Abraham and this is Sarah, my sister, and these are our workers."

King Abimelech went back to his palace. After lunch he told his servant. "Sarah is a nice person. She should come live in the palace."

That night, God came to Abimelech in a special dream. "Sarah is Abraham's wife. You will be punished for bringing her to live in the palace."

King Abimelech said, "Wait a minute. I didn't know! He told me she was his sister."
God answered him in the dream, "I realize you didn't know. If you send her back to Abraham you won't be punished."

Early the next morning, King Abimelech sent for Abraham. "Abraham why did you lie to me? I greeted you. I let you stay on my land. Why did you lie?"

Abraham lowered his head, "Well, I thought for a moment and realized the people who live in this land don't love God. They probably will kill me because of my wife Sarah. So I said she is my sister." He took a deep breath. He wondered what the king would say.

King Abimelech sighed. "I guess I can see why you were afraid, but you shouldn't have lied. Here, to pay for any wrong I have done by taking Sarah to the palace to live I will give you sheep, cattle, and money. Please pray to your God to remove any punishment."

Abraham wiped away sweat from his forehead and nodded. "Thank you." He then looked up toward the sky and prayed, "Almighty God. I pray your mercy on King Abimelech. Please bless him and his household for Your sake."

When Abraham didn't know what to do, he chose to lie. His lie caused a big problem, a problem only God could fix. King Abimelech could have put Abraham in prison for lying, but he decided to forgive Abraham.

I have lied, it caused me problems, too. What should Abraham have said to King Abimelech when he met him? Click on the comment button to share your idea.

God Will Make a Way When There Seems to be No Way

By Mary Vee

Abraham woke up early. Living on top of a mountain let the sun poke its way into his tent before he liked getting up. He stretched and tasted the gunk in his mouth. Sarah snored once and rolled over.

"Guess I'll start the fire. But first, I need to find the water jug."

He gulped some water then stepped out of the tent and gazed at the sky. "Well, Lord, the sky is filled with reds, oranges, and other colors this morning, more than usual."

He took a deep breath of mountain air and smelled something weird. He took a second deep breath. "Hmmmm...smells like smoke."

Suddenly he remembered the Lord's Word when He visited the other day. "Sodom, Lot's family...did God really destroy the city?"

He hiked to a high boulder and climbed to a flat spot. Off to his right he saw black clouds swirling into the air.

Abraham lowered his head. "Not even ten people lived in Sodom who loved God. Didn't they remember only a short time ago when I went on a quest to save their people taken as prisoners by the king of Elam. They knew God helped me conquer the king and bring back those people safely. Couldn't they trust in God? Couldn't they stop their evil ways even to save their own lives?"

"Husband, where are you?"

"Over here Sarah. Look, God has destroyed the wicked city of Sodom."

She climbed up next to him. He pointed toward the smoke.

She pulled her sweater closed and shivered. "Do you think Lot and his family escaped?"

Abraham gazed in her eyes. He saw her concern. "Yes. I do. God needed to punish the wicked people of Sodom, but He also found a way to save our nephew."
Sarah smiled. "I'll make us some breakfast."

A song I learned in church has these words, "God will make a way, when there seems to be no way." Sometimes God's way seems weird or takes a long time in our opinion. I'm thankful that God made a way through blogs to share God's Word. How has God made a way to help you or someone you know or someone from the Bible? Press the comment button and share with me.