Bibledoorajar: On being chosen for servanthood

     Jacob has now left his nuclear family and is making his way in exile because of his sin. We will find that though chosen by God, this grandson of Abraham, will spend many years wandering, cut off from the land of promise. Like most exiles in history, we find that he will be mistreated along the way, sometimes very unjustly. But as promised, God will be with him and we will see all the many ways that He gives Jacob favor. It was God's intent to bring forth a Savior from this wild olive plant but it would need much pruning. Only the power of God could have made it happen. Jacob's experiences in life make a powerful story; at the end of it we will see Jacob acting as God's prophet and blessing the Gentiles.

     What knowledge did Jacob have when he left home that would give him hope? He for sure had been told how God in His sovereignty had moved in his grandfather's life and established the course of faith. He knew how his grandfather had miraculously secured a bride for his promised son. But until the choice he and his mother made, Jacob probably did not have too much experience with conflict and fear. As his story progresses we will see Jacob's development as an extremely good schemer in order to get earthly riches. He will have his troubles, yet he will be given a promise of a return to the promised land by God. He would have a long wait, but we will see it come to fruition.

"There's a lot of pain, but a lot of healing
There's a lot of trouble, but a lot more grace
There's a lot of hate, but a lot more loving
There's a lot of sin, but a lot more grace.

Oh, outrageous grace, Oh, outrageous grace
Love unfurled by heaven's hand
Oh, outrageous grace, Oh, outrageous grace
Through my Jesus I can stand".

                 Godfrey Birtill
   
As I travel on my journey in exile from the promised home, I often ask for God's favor. I can now recount times when it has been graciously given. What a great help He gives to his servants. There is great hope in outrageous grace!