Following family retribution for Dinah’s violation, our passage finds patriarch Jacob in fear of retaliation and annihilation from neighboring peoples. God again intervenes by moving the whole family back to the place where Jacob’s eyes were opened to Covenant-God awareness: Bethel. Putting the “fear of God” in their adversaries confirmed that God was fulfilling his promise and was indeed Jacob’s shield.

What struck me was Jacob’s fatherly-priestly command for everyone to rid themselves of all idols, including possible tokens like earrings, and to physically clean themselves inside and out before heading to worship at “the House of God,” Bethel. Remember, this scene is well before the giving of the Law to Moses and the priestly instructions given by God in our Exodus and Leviticus.

Today, before we come to worship our Heavenly Father, Lord, Savior, Creator, Life-giver, do we prepare ourselves, ridding our hearts and minds of anything that may have preeminence: problems, activities, family, work, finances, relationships, plans? Do we “throw off” the weights of life and focus on him? Do we come in anticipation of his presence by coming prepared, clean and ready to hear his Word? I’m not speaking of legalism or trying to gain his approval. I know through Jesus we can come with boldness to his throne. BUT, have we become so familiar that routinely we don’t approach his presence with awe, gratefulness, praise … clean?

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, justification and redemption God has made us clean; however, should we always remember to worship our Lord in the splendor of his holiness, not being so comfortable in our own skin?

Help us, Father, not to be nonchalant as we worship you, praise you, show our love to you for you are our awe-some God. 

Sherry Van Huisen

Extended Scripture: Genesis 34–35