Never the End

This week's Torah Portion, VaYechi וַיְחִי (And He Lived), based on Genesis 47:28-50:26, narrates the death of two patriarchs. Jacob, now Israel, perishes in Genesis chapter 49, and Joseph follows suit in chapter 50. The legacy of both great men of God comes to an end in a single weekly lesson with only 15 verses separating their deaths. Yet, the focus of this week's lesson is not the end, but the passing on of blessings to the next generation.

"When Israel saw Joseph's sons, he said, 'Who are these?' Joseph said to his father, 'They are my sons, whom God has given me here.' And he said, 'Bring them to me, please, that I may bless them.'" Genesis 48:8-9

"Then Jacob called his sons and said, 'Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you what shall happen to you in days to come. Assemble and listen, O sons of Jacob, listen to Israel your father.'" Genesis 49:1-2

Two entire chapters are dedicated to blessing the future generations. Chapter 48 is all about Jacob blessing his grandchildren, who so happen to be the descendants of the church, born from the union of Israel (Joseph) and Egypt (Joseph's Egyptian wife, Asenath). Chapter 49 focuses on Jacob blessing his children, who are the 12 tribes of Israel. Although the narrative depicts two deaths of important Israeli descendants, the name of the portion and its content are almost entirely positive.

A seed must die so that a new life can sprout from it. All ends are new beginnings when God is in charge.

For God, everything has a purpose, even death. What we consider the end is only the path to a new beginning when considering eternity. As 2025 ends, it heralds the beginning of 2026, bringing new hope and possibilities in our lives. I wish you all the best in this upcoming year. May the LORD who holds everything in His hands bless you in this new year. May we have the wisdom and vision that Joseph, His servant, had when looking back in our lives:

"But Joseph said to them, 'Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.' Thus, he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. So Joseph remained in Egypt, he and his father's house. Joseph lived 110 years. And Joseph saw Ephraim's children of the third generation. The children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were counted as Joseph's own." Genesis 50:19-22

Joseph endured hardships for 13 years and could have resented his brothers. Instead, he acknowledged that it was God's plan all along and lived another 80 years with prosperity in Egypt. He saw his great-great-great-grandchildren before he passed. Joseph is the closest example of Christ in all recorded history and was blessed most of his life. An example for all to emulate, aside from Christ Himself. Something to ponder as we embark on another year. Shalom Ve'Shavuah Tov.