Wow, that story about Dinah is quite something, eh? Startling in its violence and harshness. Perplexing in what it's trying to convey. Anybody have ideas why this story would and should be included in the story of redemption? I guess the Bible doesn't flinch when it comes to dealing with the sin and misery of our lives. And the question of 34:31 ("was it right to let our own sister be treated that way?") is almost haunting. I mean, the reaction went beyond what would be called for - certainly in terms of human justice measurements, wouldn't you say? And the deceit - ohh - just like their father, Jacob. Seems like a central characteristic of that family - maybe even of God's family in general. You think?

Anyway. As you might tell, I have to get reading to stay caught up here. The above was reflection on reading from last night. Hope you are hanging in there. Let me know what you are thinking about reading these big chunks of the Bible.