Genesis 27:1–4, 15–23; 28:10–17
The story of Jacob and Esau is messy. Jacob tricks his blind father into giving him the blessing meant for his brother. Rebekah plots behind the scenes. Esau is left betrayed and angry. This is a family torn apart by favoritism, deception, and broken trust.
And yet, as Jacob flees the fallout of his choices, he finds himself met by God in the wilderness. With nothing but a stone for a pillow, Jacob dreams of a ladder stretching between heaven and earth. When he wakes, he realizes: “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.”
It’s striking that God doesn’t wait until Jacob has his life together. God doesn’t withhold presence until Jacob proves himself worthy. Instead, God shows up right in the mess – right in Jacob’s flight, fear, and failure – and offers the blessing of presence: “Know that I am with you and will keep you wherever you go.”
That is good news for us, too. God’s blessing is not reserved for those who have perfect families, spotless histories, or flawless faith. God meets us in our wilderness places, even when they are shaped by our own mistakes. The blessing is not earned. It is given, because that is who God is.
Here’s some questions to reflect on as you look through the reading and think back on the bumpy roads and blessings of your life:
- Where in your life do you feel caught in the “mess”: family tensions, personal regrets, or complicated relationships?
- How have you experienced God showing up for you in ways you didn’t deserve or expect?
- What might it mean for you to trust God’s promise: “I am with you and will keep you wherever you go”?
Let’s pray as we continue through the week:
God of Jacob and Esau, you meet us in the tangle of our lives, where failures weigh heavy and relationships fray. Thank you for blessing us not because we are perfect, but because you are faithful. Help us to notice your presence even in the wilderness places, and to trust your promise to stay with us, wherever we go. AMEN
