Bibledoorajar Meets the Family

The girl had been living north of Ur. She probably knew everyone that lived there and she probably knew the story of her Uncle Abraham who left the family and started across the terrible desert to reach a land promised by God. But her family, that of Nahor, had not gone on and it is doubtful that this young girl ever expected to live anywhere else. But things have a way of changing if God is involved. Now the servant had inquired about her family and had asked if there was room for he and his entourage where she lived. Yes, her answer had been yes, and we are left to imagine her swift run home ahead of the entourage wearing her newly acquired trophies. Soon she made out the shape of her brother Laban and as soon as he saw the jewelry, and heard her report, he ran to meet the entourage.  Laban saw all the riches which laden the backs of the camels. Now Laban may have already been a hospitable guy, but when he saw those camels he became hospitable in deed! Quickly he ordered that the animals be cared for and water be offered to soothe the feet of the weary travelers. And, yes, food must be prepared. But no, stop, the servant said. None of that until the mission can be  fully revealed and the purpose of the visit be settled. Now, the question before us is will God's selection of Rebecca for Isaac be accepted by the family?

I once saw a family in counseling. The problem was presented thus: "Ever since our daughter got saved she wants to do nothing else but pursue God. We want her to go to church, but we think she has gone a little overboard with all of this religion. She sits on our patio all the time praying." As I talked with the young eighteen year old it was clear that no mental illness was present. She had just accepted the nose ring and the bracelets. She was absorbed with the idea of being His bride. When I counseled the parents to be patient and to allow the girl the privilege of exploring this new relationship in her own way, they became very angry. They insisted I diagnose some mental illness. But when the girl heard my words, her countenance brightened and she thanked me for understanding. I often wonder what life was like at home afterwards for that girl. But I know if she continued to make room for  the Servant to take her to the bridegroom she became the wealthiest member of the family.