Jacob
means “layer of snares“. We can see this quality in Jacob. In 2012 he
would be called a used car salesman (sorry…). On the positive side, people
rarely “get over” on a used car salesman. He knows his craft too well.
Same with Jacob. He could see it coming: If he didn’t do something on his own
he would leave empty-handed. This chapter, and the preceding one, records
quite a story of manipulation. Of course, Laban was no paragon of virtue…
If we’re
not careful we forget that Jacob is also a man to whom God spoke…and was heard.
When God
said “Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and
I will be with you.” He didn’t also say “and take all your stuff with you“.
Nevertheless that made sense to Jacob so he gathered all his stuff…and some of
Laban’s stuff…if you count the household god that Rachel took. So, they
figuratively stole the “family silver” on their way out the door. Laban
chased him.
Than an
amazing thing happened. God spoke to Laban as well. Before we know it…with the
same God speaking to both parties…we have a peace treaty. Mispah!
We all
have acquaintances who contend with us. Everything is difficult. We feel
defensive and find ourselves doing everything we can just to keep our
composure. Often our conduct is not becoming. What would happen if God spoke to
that person like He speaks with us?
Live
boldly out there today…
No comments:
Post a Comment