God Knows No Favorites

Genesis 25: 24-28

“24 When her time to give birth was at hand, there were twins in her womb. 25 The first came out red, all his body like a hairy mantle; so they named him Esau. 26 Afterward his brother came out, with his hand gripping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when she bore them.” 27 The boys grew up, and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country, while Jacob was content to stay at home among the tents. 28 Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.”

Seeing and holding your child for the first time is quite an experience.  For nine months you have thought about that moment.  But, nothing can prepare you for the unconditional love that comes pouring forth from your heart when you hold your child to your breast.  

Rebeckah, Isaac’s wife, gave birth to twins who were vastly different in appearance and in personality. As they grew, Esau became more like his father and Jacob became more like his mother and, as a result, Esau was Isaac’s favorite child and Jacob was Rebecca’s favorite child.  Jacob and Esau struggled and fought for love and recognition for most of their early lives. 

God’s love is not like human love.  Scripture tells us that God loved us before we were born. God’s love knows no favorites, and  extends to all people in all countries, of all races and ethnicities.

We are all worthy of God’s love, and all are invited to become members of His kingdom.

May the love of Christ be with you

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)