Holy Struggle: Part 3 // Pastor Magrey deVega // July 26, 2026

Jacob fell in love with Rachel, but he was tricked into marrying Leah instead, and he had to work seven more years for Laban before he earned the right to marry Rachel. The context of this story may seem antiquated to our modern sensibilities, but it does convey the need for patience and endurance when what we long for in life seems out of reach. And there is redemption here for Leah as well. Though she was never Jacob’s first choice, she became the mother of ten of the twelve sons whose tribes would constitute the nation of Israel. That includes Judah, whose line would bring us King David, and eventually, Jesus.   Reflection Questions: 1. Where are you being invited to love someone beyond your idealized expectations?2. What "Leah" within yourself might God be inviting you to accept with grace?3. How can you praise God, even amid disappointment and fear? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps