2/9 Genesis 49:10

¹⁰ The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.

As Jacob prepared to die, he gave a blessing to each of his sons. They are already grown and have children and grandchildren of their own. He is blessing successive generations of their lineage. This is an example we should follow as we pray for the generations that follow us. What spiritual legacy do we leave them?

In praying for Judah, he prophesied that his lineage would reign over the family, defeat of foreign powers, and that people would obey him. The first king of Israel came from the tribe of Benjamin, but all future kings came from the line of Judah. The King of kings, Jesus, is from the line of Judah as well. He has defeated the ultimate enemy, death. To Him shall be the obedience of the peoples!

Rabbis also see this prophecy regarding Judah as predicting the future Messiah. He has come, and His victory over the enemy was greater than anyone imagined. Our obedience should be given to the King of kings, the Lion of the tribe of Judah.

Consider that Moses will also emphasize obeying the coming Messiah. Obedience to this most gracious potentate is for our good and always brings a blessing. Am I obeying my King from a heart of love and gratitude?