Genesis 27:1-40
Today's Scripture

Here is a classic case of sibling rivalry--which was probably fueled because each parent preferred a different son. Both Rebekah and Jacob took part in a deceptive plot to receive Esau's blessing--after Jacob had already taken the birthright from Esau for a bowl of stew when Esau was hungry.

It's all too easy to prefer one child over another--one may have our temperament or be easier to get along with. But favoritism usually has bad results--with enmity between siblings being the main one.

I know of a family with three (now adult) children--the oldest a son, then two daughters. They each feel that they were the favorite child. They didn't spend time lording this over their siblings, but knew that they were loved by both parents and felt special.

Here Jacob received the blessing, and Esau was only promised that he would "throw the yoke" of his brother from his shoulders when he got restless. Not quite the same blessing that Jacob received! As the story unfolds, we will see the result of the tension between the two brothers--and how God can work healing in difficult situations as well.
- posted by Suzi @ 7:12 AM