Good Morning.
So Jacob went on his journey and came to the land of the people of the East. And he looked, and saw a well in the field; and behold, there were three flocks of sheep lying by it; for out of that well they watered the flocks. A large stone was on the well’s mouth. Now all the flocks would be gathered there; and they would roll the stone from the well’s mouth, water the sheep, and put the stone back in its place on the well’s mouth. (Genesis 29:1-3)
Stones seem to play a significant role in Jacob’s life. The one in this story will be no exception. Not only that but have you ever noticed how many Bible stories involved or occurred near a well? Many life altering conversations took place near these wells. Such is the case in this story for it is here that Jacob will meet the love of his life and embark upon a journey that will affect many generations.
It starts when he saw a well in the field with sheep being gathered around it. The stone that was set in the well’s mouth was probably to prevent people from falling in as well as to prevent contamination of the water. According to the text, the stone would not be removed until all of the sheep were gathered together to be watered.
Considering that water is life-giving and is compared to the wisdom of God’s Word, the scene described here alludes to God’s people gathering together to be refreshed with His Word. When the stone was removed, all that was concealed in the well was brought forth for the flock to partake of. Likewise, from the depths of God’s Word comes forth those truths and promises that we need to refresh our soul.
As followers of Messiah, we understand that He is the Word and it is to Him that we go when we need answers. In Him we are refreshed and renewed because He is the source for living water when we thirst. He is the well from which issues all wisdom and all truth and thus Isaiah says:
Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation. Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. (Isaiah 12:2-3)
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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