In Genesis 28 we find Jacob running away from home. He had tricked his father into giving him an inheritance as the first born son, even though his twin brother Esau should have been the one to receive it. Esau was angry enough to kill.
Jacob most likely left home feeling a variety of emotions. Probably sadness, (for broken relationships and leaving his beloved homeland) perhaps guilt, (for being manipulative and deceptive) and also uncertainty and anxiety, (wondering if he was doing the right thing).
Maybe today you also find yourself carrying an assortment of emotions. The week prior to Easter always feels heavy for me. In addition to sadness in remembering all Jesus had to go through, it seems my own grief resurfaces, along with a longing I cannot give a name. In addition, the deceived world leaves me burdened. You, too?
Receiving God’s promise that came to him the first night of his journey, Jacob must have felt such comfort. “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” Genesis 28:15
Uncertainty ahead? God’s promise to Jacob is for us, too. “I am with you and will watch over you…” Remember—He is risen!
Wherever we go, whatever obstacles lay ahead, we can receive comfort, remembering God is always at our side.