READ GENESIS 28
If we dehumanize our patriarchs, we would overlook a lot. Jacob is more like us than we realize, sharing the same fears, feelings, and failures that we do. While we may view him as a spiritual figure, it's essential not to overlook his humanity as we delve into his life story. Jacob is depicted as a cunning individual fleeing from a vengeful brother to a foreign, perilous land—an idyllic city in search of a spouse among his mother's kin. Uncertain of his survival during the nearly 500-mile journey alone, he had rarely ventured far from his homeland or spent time away from his mother's watchful gaze.
As dusk fades into night, Jacob finds solace under a starlit sky, resting his head on a rock. In those moments before slumber claims him, amidst the wilderness's nocturnal symphony, did he—a lot like us—ponder how he ended up there? Did he reflect on his past, on deceiving his brother for his own gain? Did he feel remorse for deceiving his aging, sightless father? Did he envision a future where he no longer had to flee but would finally be secure? Then, a divine intervention occurs. God intervenes and alters Jacob's path. Everything changes for him when he encounters the Almighty God, El Shaddai—a deity he had only heard about from his forefathers, now a tangible reality. Jacob can no longer deny Him.
Can you fathom how God's words resonated with Jacob? To be assured of continuous blessing, divine provision, protection, and presence...without a single reproach for his deceitful ways and previous failures. Instead, Jacob is granted access and communion with God. This is our narrative as well. This is grace. This embodies the gospel—an assurance of blessing contrary to what we truly deserve. We comprehend what Jacob may have failed to grasp: Jesus serves as the intermediary between God and humanity. Christ is the link, the ladder connecting us to a holy God. Due to our inherent sinfulness and desperate need, we cannot establish a connection with God without Jesus. He is the route; only through Him can we reach the Father.
Irrespective of our transgressions or wanderings, never underestimate God's capacity to intervene. He beckons us to forge a connection with Him now and for all eternity. Through Jesus, He paves a way for us. God descended to us; we cannot earn or strive our way towards Him. Are you aware of this? What is your response to Him?
QUESTIONS
1. Why was Jacob blessed, if not because he deserved it?
2. What does this passage reveal about the nature of God?
3. What personal insights can you gain from this chapter?