In Gen 24:1-28, we learn of the special task given to the servant of Abraham -- to journey back to his kindred and find a wife for his son Isaac. At the end of last week, we saw God's faithfulness in leading Rebekah to the servant. This study continues the narrative, as the servant interacts with Rebekah's family.
(A) God’s Faithfulness: He fulfills his promises and purposes, because of Rebekah's family's faith
Laban, Rebekah's brother, saw the ring and bracelets that she obtained from the servant and heard her story. He ran to the spring where the servant was and showed him great hospitality by providing a shelter for him and his camels. His great enthusiasm betrayed his character -- one that was quick to jump at this opportunity.
The servant, when dining with the family, wasted no time to recount the story and experience that he had (Gen 24:33). In this account, it is clear that he was careful to attribute everything to God's faithfulness and blessings. Abraham's riches were from God, because of the covenantal promise. The servant's task and answered prayer (i.e. meeting Rebekah at the well) were no accidents, but because God chose to prosper his way. Even Rebekah's identity, being from the household of Abraham's kin, was not a coincidence, but a testimony to the abundant faithfulness of God. It was no wonder that the servant could only respond in worship.
For those that know the Lord and walk with Him, they see God's hand at work in all things, even mundane things in life, and they are not left apathetic, but come away excited and eager to worship God. What about us? Are we God-centred about everyday things? Do we see His invisible hand at work when we're at work, school or just going about our life? Do we see His purposes working in our lives?
(B) God’s Faithfulness: He fulfills his promises and purposes through Isaac's and Rebekah's faith
Laban and his wife recognised the hand of God behind the events, and agreed to allow her to marry. However, they wanted her to remain for another 10 days, and not leave immediately like the servant wished (Gen 24:55-56). Rebekah was allowed to make the final decision, and she agreed to leave with the servant immediately (Gen 24:61).
The narrative ends with Isaac meeting her after meditating in the field one evening (Gen 24:62). He met her and heard the servants account (Gen 24:66) and she eventually became his beloved wife (Gen 24:68).
God's promise to Adam and Abraham was one step closer to fulfilment. This passage is not merely a celebration of human love, but more than that, it points to God's enduring love and displays His faithfulness. It is not a story about how God provided one man with a wife. Rather, because of this, the world was one step closer to receiving the True Son, Jesus.