It seems there was quite a bit of deception and hard feelings on both sides in the relationship between Jacob and his father-in-law, Laban. Jacob had felt stuck in Laban’s territory for some time, so when God told Jacob to go, he was ready to obey. But family conflicts are never easy, and it took some courage for Jacob finally to leave Laban’s land and make a home for his family.
Then the LORD said to Jacob, “Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.”
What happened? Ask God to help you forgive and let go of any bitterness.
Imagine you are packing for a long journey but you can’t take much with you. Take a letter-sized piece of paper and some markers. Now draw the things that would be most important for you to bring.
God of love, give me courage to be kind and honest with those who are closest to me. Amen.