Genesis 24:52-26:16Matthew 8:18-34
Psalm 10:1-15
Proverbs 3:7-8
I really struggle with Jacob. When I look at that man, I see such a strange Bible hero. Most of Jacob’s life seems like a mess to me. I understand why Joseph is a Bible hero, I get why Abraham is a man of faith, and Moses makes perfect sense to me. However, Jacob… well, that’s a horse of a different color. The fact that the Israelites are named after this man is hysterical to me. Jesus referring to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and JACOB makes me feel as if Jacob’s name should be left off that list. Jacob isn’t exactly known for making wise decisions. To his father he was deceptive. To his brother he was dissatisfied. To his father-in-law he was dishonest. And to his wives… well, he got duped. No wander one of Jacob’s finest moments is when he fought all night with God! Needless to say, I’m not a “Jacob fan.” However, in the character of Jacob, we do find a truth about the character of God. I’m really convinced that Jacob shows us that God’s love is not only for the great heroes in scripture, but also for the rest of us as well. Abraham reminds Israel of the standard that they are to reach toward, but Jacob reminds Israel that God is reaching towards them. Abraham shows us the faith we are to have, while Jacob teaches us of God’s faithfulness. So, Jacob may not be a great character. In fact, all that one might say about Jacob is just that he is a character. Still, In the story of Jacob, we find God’s mercy, love, and faithfulness towards one of Abraham’s children. For that reason, we serve the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
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