Jacob had his eyes so set on himself that he didn’t even look for God until God intervened in a dream with angels going up and down a ladder. The Lord spoke the promise to Jacob---the continuation of the Abrahamic covenant and that He would be with Jacob wherever he went (v.15) and would bring him back to the land. Jacob saw that place as the gates of heaven. Jacob promised (v. 20) that if God would be with him---and provided food, clothes, and safety for him, then the Lord would be His God. He also said that the rock he used for a pillow, the pillar he set up, would be God’s house---and that he would give back to God a tenth of all that God provided.
So Jacob is expecting the Lord to take care of him. That wasn’t what God promised. Jacob wasn’t asking for a feast---just food.
What are we expecting from the Lord? Are we unaware like Jacob (v. 16) that the Lord is with us? Like Jacob there maybe angels all around—but more importantly you are in the presence of the Lord. Relax. Feel God’s presence in your life---and enjoy what He provides for you---spiritually as well as physically.
Traditionally the Jewish set a place for Elijah at the Passover table. Consider setting an extra plate at the table whenever you want to feel the presence of the Lord at meals.
Lord, I praise you for who you are, for being with us, and thank you for providing for Jacob and for us.
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