Genesis 29:8 And they said, We cannot, until all the flocks be gathered together, and till they roll the stone from the well’s mouth; then we water the sheep.

Yesterday I spoke about hidden passages that reminded me of the Lord. Here today is another that reminds me of the Lord. I am sure you can see why. The words flock, rolling the stone and watering the sheep all bring our memories of scriptures surrounding our Good Shepard. It is understandable.

But, and I say that with caution, is there a teachable moment here? Is this memorable moment different in any way than yesterday’s example? As I examine the surrounding elements within this chapter I find interest in trying to explain why the word cannot was used. I am sure there must have been some relevant understanding within that time but it is not explained.

Here we have Jacob about to meet Rachel, the love of his life. Here we have Rachel bringing her father’s sheep to be watered. Jacob performed the duties of a servant and rolled the stone away so that the sheep could be watered. Jacob kissed Rachel and she took him to meet her father. A bargain was struck for the hand of Laban’s daughter. It was only after many years of service to the father that Jacob got to marry both of the daughters of Laban.

We await the marriage feast. There is but one bridegroom. He will marry the daughters of the Father. Is this is not a teachable moment? I ask you to meditate on the examples of the past and the promises of our future and see if perhaps the Lord will show you a connection.

I will offer nothing more than opportunity here. I can lead the sheep to the well but it is not for me to roll away the stone that you might drink.