Family Reunion

Read Genesis 29:9–14

Reflection

Have you ever lost something really important? Perhaps a wedding ring, a legal document or an expensive tool? Losing even smaller things, like your keys or credit card, can heighten your anxiety. Equally, when we find that lost thing, particularly if it is important or irreplaceable, we feel an overwhelming sense of relief and all the worry and stress melt away.

It’s easy to see Jacob’s relief when he finds his family; weeping is often an expression of deep joy. This family clearly wanted to be found, so much so that Rachel ran to go and find her father, and Laban hurried as fast as he could to meet Jacob. They were all clearly very emotional and eager to welcome Jacob into their home.

You might feel as though you are on a journey to find where you belong. We all feel this from time to time. You might be trying to find a job, a community or a place to call home. You might be lost in your faith and just can’t find the way forward.

Think of this story – but, instead of being about Jacob, it is about you. And instead of Laban, it is about Jesus. In the Parable of the Lost Sheep in Luke 15, a shepherd goes looking and, when he finds the sheep, he is overwhelmed with joy. Just like this shepherd (and Laban), Jesus is ready to run and meet you and welcome you back to the Family. You are part of His Family. You are Home.

Consider and Pray

Are you feeling a bit lost or unsure of your place in life at the moment? Pray that you see Jesus running towards you, inviting you to come with Him to find a place in His Home.