Reading Through The Bible: Number 80
The long-awaited reunion between Jacob and Esau takes place in Genesis chapter 33 but not before Jacob has positioned his loved ones according to his love for them! After the presents of hundreds of animals designed to appease Esau’s wrath, he sends the handmaids who have borne his children, next are Leah and her children and finally his beloved Rachel and Joseph, his favourite son.
Thus is demonstrated one of the many painful problems with the practice of polygamy! Unlike God, who is impartial, humans have favourites and favouritism causes jealousy and a sense of worthlessness in the least favoured.
Although parents may sometimes see qualities in a child that causes them to appreciate them more than another, it is very unfair of them to make that known. While showing appreciation of one child, the wise parent will always have a word of commendation for something the others have done as well. I’m sure you are familiar with the story of where the favouritism Jacob shows Joseph finally leads, but we’ll come to that further along our journey.
Jacob’s wise planning meets with success as Esau accepts his gifts and humble “servant” attitude. A fond embrace takes the place of a heated confrontation and promised revenge and Jacob is welcomed home to the land God promised to Abraham’s children! And once again we see God’s faithfulness demonstrated. He loves you friend. Draw close to Him today through Jesus and have a great day!