We first started reading Genesis in our various House Fellowships (HF) on 27 May, and I'm glad to share that we reached the finish line together this weekend. This week's HF was a combined one between Jacob’s Well and Diakonia, hosted at Tava — this was our very first time hosting a combined HF there too. We were glad that H, M and J from BB could join us.
Most of us would have read Genesis on our own before, especially if we have made New Year resolutions to start reading the Bible. Some of us may have read it once, others multiple times and some probably did stop half way. However, completing it as a HF certainly was a different experience altogether. As we navigated each chapter, we rotated between teams of facilitators and solo facilitators, and even through different venues. Whatever permutations and combinations, God certainly put us on a rewarding journey.
Genesis began with Adam falling into sin and being separated from God, but the end of Genesis was quite different; it showed forgiveness and reconciliation among Joseph’s brothers. This contrast allowed us to witness the faithfulness of God from beginning till the end. One verse that really stood out for us was Genesis 48:15, when Jacob gave thanks for "the God who has been my shepherd all my life to this day”. Despite his ups and downs, despite the struggles he had, he remained faithful to God and lived a life of obedience to him. It was this faithfulness that put Jacob on a journey of arising faith in God. We see that very clearly in his end of his life — “By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshipped as he leaned on top of his staff.” (Hebrew 11:21)
We also discussed why Jacob blessed Ephraim instead of Manasseh (Joseph's sons), why Jacob blessed all his sons despite their imperfections and why Joseph needed to reassure his brothers that he would not seek revenge. It was an enriching time of discussion.
In closing, the group found out that H would be singing solo for our christmas party. All of us were so excited! Others shared that they were also volunteering to help out with Be A Star, Talent Beacon's annual Christmas party. It was really encouraging that at TB, our hearts beat as one as we serve God together, all for His kingdom glory. Have a blessed week ahead.
On behalf of Jacob's Well, Boon Hoe
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