Your Lot in Life

Genesis 19:30-38

Why would such sordid stories be preserved? In this case, it explains the origin of the Moabites and the Ammonites, who were occasional enemies of Israel. So Israel might take some sinister satisfaction in preserving such a story of their origin. At the same time, it serves to point out that the offspring were preserved, and were effectively included in the promise of life and blessing given to Abraham. Again, God’s grace prevails through human degradation. In that vein, we should probably also note the lack of trust in Lot’s behaviour in fleeing Zoar, the place provided for his protection by God. So maybe there’s a hint that he is not entirely innocent here. He didn’t have to drink the wine to the point of insensibility, either. And once again, considering the daughters’ perspective (not to excuse anything), we should remember how powerful for this culture was the drive toward having progeny. It is remarkable that, though we recoil at the story, the text itself does not moralize about the behaviour.

The main point through it all, though, I think, is God’s prevailing provision and grace. It’s also a practical reminder to us not to look down on anyone because of his or her origin.

Prayer:
Lord, I look at some behaviour and wonder anyone could do such a thing. Maybe it bothers me most because I suspect I may be not much different. I acknowledge before you that I really just can’t know how I would act in another’s situation. Hold me accountable for what I do, even what I think. Give us loving mutual accountability, overseen by the Master who loved all. Amen.