Today’s Author: Suzan Hurlbut

Our scripture last Sunday (Genesis 28:10-17) was about the twin sons of Isaac and Rebecca, Esau and Jacob.  Jacob lied and cheated to get the blessing or to be the favorite. We could go on and on about the unfairness of that concept let alone to the women in the families but it made me think of being the “favorite” in my family.  

I was the oldest daughter and it did feel special to be the oldest and kind of the good one.  But the mixed blessing with that is that it also came along with some hard things like being a people pleaser and not wanting to rock the boat. I wanted to keep my status in good standing.  My middle sister didn’t have the blessing.  As a matter of fact, my Mom and she didn’t get along at all. She was seen as the angry one.  But because of that she struck out and became a strong independent businesswoman even without a college degree. 

Of course, families are complicated but my point is that as with Jacob and Esau God doesn’t give up on us or our dysfunctional families.  We are truly each one of us God’s favorite.  

Dear God, open us up to the knowledge that you think of us as your Favorite Child and help us accept and love ourselves in all our complexities. Amen


“Mid-week devotions are authored by members of our community.  If you are interested in creating a trio of reflections to be shared on an upcoming Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday contact Pastor Peter.