Advent Day 8
Genesis 29:31
When the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren.
In ancient days the security of a woman’s future rested in bearing sons. Husbands could die, and a woman’s life might be jeopardy, but sons were a blessing for care and protection a difficult world.
The popular story of Jacob’s dysfunctional family is heartbreaking in many ways. He loved Rachel and hated Leah. but God cared for Leah when Jacob didn’t.
We should be cautious in taking lessons about how we ought to live from any of the Old Testament characters (not least of all Jacob, whose name meant “deceiver”). But what we should notice is the nature and character of God. God cares for those who are hurting.
This has been a difficult year and many of us are hurting in many ways. We have learned much about our own hearts, or the hearts of others. We may be frightened for the future or feel unloved.
God cares for the hurting. How are you hurting today? Let God meet you there.
Prayer
God, I am sometimes hurting and scared in this world that is simply not quite all it should be. Remind me that you are a God who cares for the hurting, and let me feel your care for me today.
Today’s ADVENTure says
Write a Christmas letter to a senior, neighbor OR a family member.