Daily Lectionary | Genesis 29 & John 15:18-27
Genesis 29
Summary
When we encounter a well in Genesis, we should be prepared for an impending marriage. Jacob continues his journey and sees a well. Abraham’s servant meets Rebekah at the well in Haran and gets Laban’s approval. Now, Jacob meets Rachel at the well and will seek Laban’s blessing.
Men gather around the well waiting for someone to remove the stone, so the flocks could drink. Rachel appears and then Jacob removes the stone and promptly kisses Rachel. He has found his bride.
Laban, however, goes out to meet Jacob and employs him into his service as a dowry of sorts so he can marry Rachel. Laban asks Jacob for seven years of service.
After the years of service, Jacob asks for his wife. This time, Laban would deceive Jacob, giving him Leah to be his wife. Laban argues that it’s proper to give the firstborn away first. Laban agrees to give him Rachel also in exchange for seven more years of service.
The Lord has compassion on Leah, giving her children, but Rachel’s womb was closed.
Leah bore Jacob Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah. The twelve tribes of Israel begin in Leah’s womb.
Reflection Questions
Describe the irony in this passage as it relates to the theme of deception?
How is Laban portrayed in Genesis?
John 15:18-27
Summary
It’s a straightforward message: followers of Christ might very well be treated like Christ. “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (Jn. 16:15).
Jesus continues to prepare his followers for life after his departure. He tells them to prepare to be despised by the world. Jesus has come as a witness against the world: he spoke his words and performed his works among them. So they are without excuse. Jesus and his followers despisers fulfill the verse: “They hated me without a cause.”
But amid persecution and hatred, Jesus sends the church the Helper, the Holy Spirit who will keep bearing witness to Jesus before the world. The Spirit’s testimony, along with his disciples, make up two important primary witnesses.
Reflection Questions
Who exactly do you think Jesus has in view when he speaks of the world’s hatred? Who was hating Jesus to this point?
What reasons does Jesus give for the world’s hatred and opposition to him and his followers?