Several years ago, I was sat watching a television programme with one of my daughters. She would have been about 8 years old, perhaps 9 or 10 at most. I don’t remember what the programme was, but it was some sort of musical talent programme, X Factor or something similar. After we’d listened to two or three songs, she turned to me and asked a question that went something like this: “Dad, why are all of these songs about finding someone special?” It was a very perceptive observation. So many of the songs we’ve all been hearing year after year after year, are all about finding that special person. It’s not just song lyrics, but books, films and TV programmes as well. It’s a powerful narrative. And it’s not just romantic relationships either. A special friendship, a relationship with a parent, a relationship with a child or grandchild – for many, if not most of us, the lure of love is very strong.
You might say, “What’s wrong with that?”. Good question. On Sunday morning, we’ll take a look at how our longing for love lures us into a trap, the harm we experience as a result, and how we can escape.
And we’ll do so by looking in detail at one of the Bible’s many wonderful love stories, that of Jacob and Rachel. Maybe to prepare for our time together you might do some background reading in Genesis chapters 27 to 32, focusing on chapter 29. After all, it’s the Word of God that sets us free from the traps we find ourselves in. Reading it prayerfully and with a heart that looks to and depends on our loving Father is a first step in that direction.
May God grant us the courage to receive His Word as we explore it together.
David Faulkner