Read Genesis 35:15-29. What other woes did Jacob face within his dysfunctional family? As soon as Jacob leaves Bethel, three interrelated incidents mark the last step of his journey toward the Promised Land: Jacob’s last son was born; Rachel died; and Reuben, Jacob’s first son from Leah, slept with Jacob’s concubine. Though the text doesn’t say … Continue reading –>

Read Genesis 34:30-35:15. What lessons can we take about true worship from what happened here? Immediately after Jacob’s complaint that his peace with the Canaanites had been compromised (Genesis 34:30), and after his two sons were rebuked (Genesis 34:30), God urges Jacob to leave Shechem and return to Bethel in order to renew his covenant. Indeed, the Lord … Continue reading –>

Now that Jacob has reconciled with his brother, he wants to settle in the land of Canaan in peace. The word shalem, “safely” (Genesis 33:18, NKJV), from the word shalom, “peace,” for the first time characterizes his journey. After having purchased a piece of land from the inhabitants (Genesis 33:19), he erects an altar there, showing his faith and his realization … Continue reading –>