FORMER FRIENDS, NOW ENEMIES
This month saw the spectacular disagreement between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, the richest man in the world. The two leaders had teamed up in Trump’s election campaign and in the early months of Trump’s second term in the Oval Office. Musk headed up the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), assigned to eliminating overspending in various federal agencies. Trump awarded Musk with sizable contracts for SpaceX, Musk’s space program that, among other things, supplies the International Space Station. For months, the partnership seemed to be strong, with both Trump and Musk expressing appreciation and affection for one another. But then this month, things unraveled quickly and with many angry barbs traded in full view of the world. Now the two men are no longer friends, with President Trump even saying the relationship is over.
FORMER ENEMIES, NOW ALLIES
The reading today is from the portion of Genesis that follows Isaac and his wife, Rebecca, into the land of Gerar of the Philistines. Like his father before him, Isaac lies about his wife, saying she is his sister. But King Abimelech sees through the ruse and is angry with Isaac. When the Lord blesses Isaac with great wealth, Abimelech demands that Isaac leave his land. Not long after this, however, Abimelech travels to Isaac’s new settlement and asks to enter into a covenant with him. The king has seen God’s hand at work with Isaac, and he wants assurances that Isaac will not harm his people.
Questions
- What are some other famous feuds you’re aware of?
- Who have you been at odds with whom you now are more friendly toward?
- Why does God still bless Isaac despite his lie to the Philistines?