Hi
You know – The more I read about Laban, the less I like him. He was just Mean with Caps, Bold and Underlined. Hear his daughters’ views in today’s Holy Nougat
“Then Rachel answered along with Leah and they said to him, “Is there still a portion and inheritance for us in our father’s house? Aren’t we considered foreigners to him? For he has sold us and has also completely used up our bridal price.” Genesis 31:14-15 TLV
My people, sexual and gender based violence is real. And it has been a social problem wreaking havoc in families almost forever. Rachel and Leah did not feel that Laban’s intent was pure in arranging their joint marriage to Jacob the way he did. No, they felt like the outsider Jacob was (despite the fact that Jacob was Laban’s nephew).
And, having received their dowry (bride price) in the form of hard labor for 14 years, Laban didn’t choose to share even one shekel with them. Rather, he sought to get as much out of Jacob by asking him to remain in Laban’s employ indefinitely! If that wasn’t enough; when Jacob Finally began to accumulate his own stock; Laban was furious. No concern about the welfare of his daughters and grandchildren.
Nope. Only for his stock
What kind of father treats his children that way? Unfortunately, too many. And we are each called to be part of the change. Whether we are like Laban or not. For, if we maintained Laban’s parsimonious and selfish spirit; the story of how we were transformed may inspire another. And, if we not inclined to abusive behavior; we must pray for those caught in oppressive conditions; and seek ways to effect change in the lives of others.
We might volunteer at a shelter, learn the basic signs of abuse (especially in Covid-19 times); agitate for change in our local (national or regional) policies; lead Bible studies on these issues; raise the concerns in our youth, women’s and men’s groups; and challenge our churches to be the difference the vulnerable need at this time.
Many countries have abuse hotlines. While we don’t seek to falsely accuse another, we may need to make a call. And if we can, let’s open our homes to foster a child. And, of course, we can offer counseling and trauma transformation to all involved (including the abuser).
Let’s be the difference our children need. We might be saving someone’s life. May God grant us wisdom to effectively change our society.
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
