The Story of Jacob & Esau (July 14th)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Genesis 12:24- 25:11

In our learning this week about Jacob, drew a connection between he and his father Isaac, Sarah and Abraham’s first-born son. This helps to weave the story of God’s Great Family. We learned about his twin brother Esau and their struggle with wanting to be first. Our storytelling lays out the trick that Rebekah and Jacob play on Isaac so that he thinks he is giving his blessing to Esau, though it is only Jacob in disguise. To protect Jacob from the consequences of this trick, he is sent out to find a wife, but he is tricked too. The long and complicated story of God’s Family reminds us of our human folly and God’s sovereignty. The story concludes with Jacob’s dream about wrestling God and thus being re-named “Israel”. The 12 Tribes of Israel, then are drawn from his 12 sons. 

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

(Note: These are the usual questions that are asked after Old Testament character studies.)

Now I wonder which part of the story you liked best?

I wonder what part is the most important?

I wonder what part is about you…. Or what part was especially for you?

I wonder what the story of Jacob and his family might be teaching you?

Prayer:

“Dear Lord, help me to learn about you through the story of Jacob. Help me to understand that, no matter what I try to do to trick others or sneak around, you are always there to know the truth and to help me to follow your path instead. I pray that you will teach me wisdom and trust. Thank you for the stories of the Great Family. I love you and am so thankful that you are in charge. Amen.”