Genesis 29
In studying Genesis 29, we learn that Jacob, on the run from his brother Esau, finds himself in the land of his Uncle Laban. He makes it to a well, and bam, Rachel shows up; we see God’s perfect timing again. It was customary in those days for a man to work to earn a dowry before marrying. Rachel was a shepherd, so the family was losing a good helper. Working for a dowry was a display of commitment and ability to provide. Jacob ends up working for his uncle Laban, and after about a month, Laban wants to pay him. Jacob agrees to work for Laban for 7 years in exchange for marrying Laban’s younger daughter, Rachel.
Would you work 7 years to marry someone? That is dedication. Jacob had worked for 7 years, but his love for Rachel was so strong that 7 years felt like only a few days; that’s some intense love. On his wedding night, Laban slips in the older daughter, Leah, in Rachel’s place. He tricks Jacob into marrying the wrong daughter. I can’t help but think this is the old saying, “what comes around, goes around.” I don’t believe in karma, or any “cosmic balance”, because of the saving grace of Christ. However, I do think Paul was right on when he wrote:
‘Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. ‘
Jacob lied to his dad to get his blessing, and now he’s been lied to as well. He’s ticked, but still, he agrees to work another 7 years for Rachel. But he didn’t have to wait 7 years; they were married about a week after he agreed. I’m reminded that our flawless, perfect God works with flawed people. I’m also reminded of the forgiveness, grace, and mercy. We’ve probably all planted some bad seeds in our lives; we should pray for crop failure on those. We seek forgiveness and make amends. Praying for the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts, words, and actions.