Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Rachel A WOMAN OF COMPASSION This is what the Lord says: “A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” — Jeremiah 31:15 According to Jewish tradition, all the patriarchs and matri­archs are buried in the cave of Machpelah in Hebron, except one: Rachel. Her husband Jacob buried her on the road near Bethlehem because he foresaw in the future that when the Jewish people were exiled from their homeland, they would need her. Here’s why. Jewish tradition records a wild debate up in heaven. As the Jews were being exiled from their land, all of the holiest souls tried to intercede before God on their behalf. Abraham spoke first: “I overcame my nature and was prepared to sacrifice my only son. Won’t you remember my devotion and have mercy on my children?” Then Isaac tried: “When I realized that my father had been commanded to slaughter me, I faithfully accepted my fate. Won’t you remember my strength and have mercy on my children?” Next, Jacob: “I suffered so much in my lifetime. I had to work for Laban, escape from Esau, and I suffered so much raising my children. Now they are being led like sheep to the slaughter. Won’t you remember my pain and redeem them?” Then Moses stated his case: “Wasn’t I a loyal shepherd for Israel all the years in the desert? I didn’t even get to enter the Holy Land, but brought them dutifully to its entrance. And now they go into exile — won’t you listen to my cries?” Click here to buy Learn WordPress Today ... Easy Video Training!