Introduction to the Patriarchs

 No readings today, just an introduction video for the next period:

So today is just an intro video for the next period after the Early World, that of the Patriarchs. Rather interesting take on this by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Jeff Cavins. 

As the BIY Companion, Vol 1, states about this period:

The period of the Patriarchs begins with Abram (later Abraham) and his wife, Sarai (later Sarah). God calls Abram to trust him by moving to the land of Canaan, where God promises him three things: land, a royal dynasty, and worldwide blessing. As a foundation to these three promises, God makes a covenant with him. (p. 17)

This era continues down through Isaac and his son Jacob, when it technically ends, but the story of how God works through Joseph's son Joseph "to save Israel during a difficult famine" will figure prominently in ending this age. To me, this is probably the most exciting part of Genesis, where we see some action and real movement towards God's salvation plan, beginning with the Abrahamic Covenant. Sure, we can trace this plan all the way back to just after the Fall, but here is where novices such as myself can really begin to see things start take shape. The geography become smore focused, for as the BIY Companion notes:

The Early World period ends in Mesopotamia, while the Patriarchs period takes place primarily in the land of Canaan. It is within this narrow, fifty-mile-wide "land bridge" that Israel will struggle to trust God and be obedient to his will. (p. 17)

The end of this period will find Israel in Egypt, setting up what comes in Exodus with another of God's chosen, Moses.

I look forward to tomorrow when Abram, not yet Abraham, first encounters God.