GENESIS 29:9. “And while he yet spake with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep: for she kept them.”
RACHEL CAME. He walked for miles – days and weeks passed by, as with plodding steps he journeys – Promises from God still ringing clear and true, “I am with thee… will keep thee… will not leave thee.” And then at a fundamental place where all must come that each may live – he sees Love before him. Not floating above the ground as some ethereal vision; not perfumed with spices too costly to bear; But in a servant’s role and robe, feet planted firmly on the ground – each step and voice sound guiding Those who followed, to the place of life-giving water – and consequently, blessing to many.
They were only sheep – they did not know the beauty of her face and form – they knew her voice. A voice that spoke and they would follow, having learned to trust the timbre of her tones – It may be warning sounds to gather scattered sheep to safety from danger she alone discerned – It may be gentle tones in the middle of a stormy day or night, to calm the fearful charge she had – It may be the cheerful words of leading to the pastures green – or to get water from the well – But Love is in action – meeting needs, fulfilling responsibilities, planning for the greater good.
Rachel came – entrusted with the care of father’s living, and keeping that which blessed the many. Rachel came – her beauty greater far than that which attracts only longing looks from greedy men.
Rachel came – the role in life she was given, she took without bitterness – and “kept the sheep.” Rachel came – hospitable and interested, appreciative of the help given to assist her. Rachel came – and knowing who the one who looked upon her with loving eyes – ran to father. Rachel came – and told the tidings of a stranger from a far and distant place – who looked with love.
I came one day, and found my “Rachel” serving – serving God and sheep – one and the same; For serving that which Father has entrusted to one’s care, is serving Him who owns the cattle on A thousand hills – and sheep in valley pastures or on high slopes of mountains far and distant. Though beautiful in face and form, her inward beauty sounds through interested voice – and speaks. Approachable and willing to run and tell of her heavenly “Jacob” to those who need the living water. And I loved her – and said to her Father, “I will serve Thee…”, two of us together – “Rachel and me.”
Face and form change as years pass by, giving way to inner beauty more and more displayed – Watching eyes and listening ears still hear the voice of my Rachel – speaking peace to troubled souls; Guiding generations newly born into directions that are not normal – but are right and safe. She speaks to her gender in the flock, and takes the time to speak of things not right for men to speak. Her caring gaze and simple touch on the arm of the strong young men, causes them to say, “Thank you For caring, and showing and reminding me of things I did not know, and things I did not do.”
My Rachel came to me, but first to God, her Master – clear that her obligation was eternal first. But Father God knew best, that two of us together could better do appropriately what He desired. The truth is there for all to see – when the one I love speaks, there are those who listen with respect. It’s true; each of us is different and yet the same – different in roles to fill, but each with work to do. Like the ancient two God brought together at the well – so two of us join to accomplish His will – Not ours but His who knows where the sheep find food and water – at the well where Rachel came.
“I recognize, heavenly Father, that much Linda does, I could never do. It wouldn’t be right, and moreover, she is qualified to accomplish the unique role and work You gave to her. I think I am clear as to what my responsibilities are and she is actively involved in hers. Together seems to be the best way possible to labor in caring for sheep and seeking out those who still are lost. Please keep me in a state of mind that appreciates and promotes what she is doing for Thee. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”