Rebekah's Dad and Brother Said "Yes"

By Mary Vee

Genesis 24:32-54
In our last story, Rebekah's brother, Laban, ran out to the city well and invited Eliezer, Abraham's servant, and the other servants to his home.

Laban led the camels to the stable, ducking each time they spat. He unloaded all the bundles, and set out plenty of straw and feed.

When he finished, Laban wiped his hands on his tunic and turned toward the house. "Follow me, my Father will be excited to hear your news."

Once inside, Laban walked over to the table. "My mother has prepared a meal." "You and your men may sit over here."

Eliezer cleared his throat. "Actually, I'd rather not eat until I've given my message."

Bethuel, Rebekah's father, nodded. "Don't worry, Laban. That's fine."

Eliezer bowed in respect. "I am Abraham's servant. The Lord has blessed my master with great wealth."

A servant yelled at a donkey in the front yard to get back to the stable. The donkey squawked and brayed. Eliezer leaned forward and spoke loudly about Abraham, his journey, and his prayer at the well.

He shook his head and put his hands on his face. "Do you know what happened? Before I finished speaking in my heart, there was Rebekah walking toward the well."

Laban rolled his eyes and mumbled, "She should have waited for him to stop speaking. But no, my sister always has to be first."

Eliezer sighed. "Now, tell me. What do you think?"

No one spoke.

Suddenly, Laban's stomach grumbled. I wish Father would make a decision. I'm starved. He leaned over and whispered, "Seems like a good idea."

"I don't know if this is good or bad, but I think the Lord is clearly speaking to us." Bethuel stroke his beard.

A moment later he nodded and stood. "You may take Rebekah to be your master's son's wife as the Lord has spoken."

Eliezer fell to the ground and worshiped the Lord. "Thank you, O God of my master, Abraham."

"Wait. I have gifts." He ran to one of his bags and jammed his arm deep inside. "Yes, here it is." Eliezer unpacked silver and gold jewelry and beautiful clothing. "These are for your daughter."

Before Bethuel called, Rebekah ran out to the living room. "You called, Father?"

He shook his head. "I would have called if you would have given me the chance. Very well, you may have your gifts."

Eliezer set his bag on the floor and handed her the jewelry and clothing.

She bowed graciously. "Thank you." Rebekah brushed the soft material against her cheek and laughed. "What beautiful gifts." She twirled around the living room, holding each new treasure close to her.

Laban rolled his eyes. "Girls."

Eliezer dug into his bag and unpacked precious gifts for Laban and their mother.

Tears came to her eyes. "Oh, Betheul. Look."

He nodded. "Very nice."

Laban sneaked behind his sister and tickled her. She spun around to face him. At that moment he saw a sparkle in her eyes. "I'm happy for you, Sis."

Can you count how many pieces of the story about Rebekah God clearly planned? Hmmm..don't forget Eliezer's prayer asking God to send the right girl to say the right thing, and then...click the comment button to say what else God did.