A Slave's Journey to Egypt

By Mary Vee
Genesis 39:1

The sun baked Joseph's skin. Since his brothers stole his coat of many colors he only had a thin tunic to wear. Sweat dripped down his forehead and into his eyes. He tried to blink it away. Instead his vision blurred. He tugged at the ropes holding him prisoner at the back of an Ishmaelite caravan. "If only I could wipe the sweat off my face."

"You best be quiet." Another slave whispered to him. "They catch you talking and they'll rope your neck, or beat you."

Joseph looked up and saw an Ishmaelite glaring back at him. His foot smacked into a rock causing him to stumble. He bit his tongue to keep from crying out.

Joseph thoughts swirled from memories of being thrown into a deep pit by his brothers to eating juicy figs with his father and mother to freezing the night before while trying sleep without a blanket on the cold desert sand. How did he get here? Where was he going? What would happen to him?

His stomach growled. The Ishmaelites gave him only a small piece of bread and a cup of water for supper. Breakfast wasn't any better. He closed his eyes and pictured the roasted lamb served a few nights ago. Mother made her special broth and fresh bread to go along with the meat. Joseph signed. I thought I was too full to ever eat again.

The caravan came to a stop. Joesph raised his elbow to wipe sweat on his upper arm then blinked the bright sun from his eyes. He for forced his tongues to find moisture to lick his lips. "So thirsty."

One of the Ishmaelites pressed his way toward Joseph. He raised his whip. "Did I hear one of you slaves speak?" Joseph's eyes went wide and he shook his head. The man lowered his whip. "I suppose you're thirsty?" Joseph and the other slaves lowered their heads. The man laughed. "Well, we can't have you dieing of thirst, now can we. Can't hardly sell you for a good price that way?" He guffawed and reached for his water skin. "Take a drink. Not much, mind you." He poured some water in Joseph's mouth. "By tomorrow, you'll fetch me a good price, no doubt."

Joseph held the the water in his mouth to wash the mucky film away. He swallowed the water and looked toward the sky. Thank you God for the drink.

The next day the caravan entered Egypt. Joseph passed noisy marketplaces filled with merchants selling food, blankets, and jewelry. Musicians played strange music and the people wore strange cloths. Joseph was so busy looking around he hadn't noticed that the caravan stopped. He walked right into the back of a camel.

An Ishmaelite untied his ropes and grabbed the end. He tied the slave's ropes together and held his whip high. "Try to escape and you'll regret it." He led Joseph and the other slaves to a platform. "Stand in a straight line."

A second Ishmaelite raised his hands before the crowd. "We have collected the finest slaves to serve you. We've searched far and wide to bring you the best. Look here at their muscles." Someone pushed Joseph forward. "Now here is fine slave. Strong, healthy. What is your bid?"

A well dressed man pushed his way to the front. "There will be no bidding. I will buy him for Potifer." He handed the slave trader a bag of coins and signaled for Joseph's release.

The Ishmaelite opened the pouch and nodded. "Release the slave to him."

Joseph kept his eyes toward the ground and stumbled forward. The well dressed man grabbed the rope and led Joseph through the marketplace toward the edge of the city. At the end of the street was a home large enough to be a palace. The man led Joseph through the gate to a small building. "Akhom." An older man opened the door. "Take this slave and clean him up. Prepare him to work in Potifer's house."

Joseph's trip to Egypt would not be the kind most people would want to take for a vacation. He was tired, thirsty, hungry, cold, and hot. His feet and arms hurt. He learned quickly to not speak. Yet in the whole trip, the Bible never tells us that he grumbled against his brothers.

Why didn't Joseph grumble? In our story what did he thank God for? How was he able to thank God when everything seemed to be bad? What can we learn from this story?

What Can You Say on Easter Day Riddle

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Add or subtract letters from each alphabet letter to find the answer





HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK ON THE COMMENT BUTTON TO TELL US YOU FINISHED:)

I hope you printed last week's dot to dot out and made your picture. You should have seen 3 crosses on a hill. Print out another one, connect the dots, color it and give it as a gift to someone you love.

WWJD Part Two

By Mary Vee
Today's story is the second in a two parter. Enjoy this original Easter-time story.

Tom parked the quad he borrowed from Mr. Timm behind Jason's. Jason whipped off his helmet and threw it on the ground. "I guess I understand your not wanting to fight Carl. He put a kid in the hospital last week when he didn't get his bus money."

Tom grabbed his lunch and walked to the edge of Snake Pit Ravine. "It has nothing to do with his smashing me to pieces, although I like my face the way it is." He unpacked his food and bowed his head.

Jason plopped his lunch next to Tom's. "You feeling OK?"

"Yeah." Tom gnawed into his bologna sandwich. "I thanked God for my food."

Jason shook his head and unpacked his food. "Didn't pack much again, huh?"

Tom gazed at Jason's chips, cookies, sandwich, brownies, soda, and jerky. If there was more in my kitchen I'd have packed it. I was lucky to find the bread.

Jason pointed to his chips. "You can have these."

"Thanks."

Off in the distance a motor hummed. Tom stood and looked across the ravine. "Someone's riding through Mr. Timm's pastureland. Isn't that Carl's quad?"

Jason squinted. "Yup. That's him. How'd he get over there? I thought Mr. Timm had that pasture fenced in."

Tom stuffed his food back in the bag and grabbed his helmet. "He does. The only way Carl got over there was if he broke the fence." He hurried back to his quad. "Let's go. We've got to keep the cattle from wandering out."

Tom opened the throttle and ripped along the edge of the ravine toward the fence blowing a dirt cloud behind him. He assumed Jason kept close behind. The ravine narrowed to a shallow gully near the fence line. Tom whipped the 4-wheeler to the left and stopped the engine. He raised his visor and turned to Jason. "Look at that. He rammed his quad into the gate!"

Jason and Tom stared at the damage. The gate had been knocked away from the posts and was laying on the ground. "It was a 4-wheeler that did this all right. My dad had to fix a gate like this one time when a pick-up slid on the ice and rammed into it. My mom complained for months about the cost of fixing it."

Tom sighed. "Mr. Timm doesn't have much. He lost a quarter of his cattle in last year's winter."

"Help me pick it up." Jason grabbed onto one end of the gate. "Maybe we can lean it against the posts for now."

Tom grabbed the other end. Together they heaved the broken pieces up and pushed them toward the posts. The gate slapped against wood. "This won't keep the cattle in. You stay here. I'll get Mr. Timm."

Tom leaped on his quad, yanked his visor into place and flew toward Mr. Timm's house. After explaining what happened, Mr Timm called his ranch hand, grabbed his tools, and hopped in his pickup. "Come on. Show me the spot." Tom sat in the front of the cab and gave directions.

Jason waved as they drove up. "I scared a few cattle away from here while you were gone."

Mr. Timm shook his head while inspecting the broken wood. "This is gonna be expensive. I should have installed a stronger gate." He turned to Tom and Jason. "I sure appreciate you noticing this problem. The herd would have trampled right out and gone who knows where. You boys can head back home. I'll take care of the gate."

Jason gave Tom a ride back to the barn. "I gotta get home. See ya tomorrow."

Tom pulled his bike out of the barn. He took the long way back to give himself time to think. How is Mr. Timm going to afford to fix the fence? He'd never ask for help.

Tom rode down the street where Mr. Proctor's Quad Shop was. He saw a used quad on display. "Hey Mr. Proctor, you lowered the price on that 4-wheeler."

Mr. Proctor wiped greasy hands on a towel. "Sure did. You interested?"

"Well, I--I think I might have enough saved--I--could I take it for a ride?"

"Sure. Don't take long, though. I'm getting ready to close for the day."

Tom stepped toward the quad. He smoothed his hand over the surface. The greasy smell of the shop filled his lungs. Mr. Proctor cleared his throat. "You gonna take that thing for a ride or not?"

Tom swung his leg over the seat and bounced his body into place. He sat for a minute imagining a race against Jason to Snake Pit Ravine. Then he remembered the fence. He rubbed his arm along the handles and grabbed the throttle. It felt good in his hand. Tom bounced on the seat once more before swinging his foot onto the floor. Mr. Proctor looked over his glasses. "Well?"

"Nope. Not today, Mr. Proctor. I used my money on something else. Guess I'll have to start saving for a 4-wheeler tomorrow."

WWJD

By Mary Vee
Today's story is the first of a two parter. Enjoy this original Easter time story.

Tom and Jason met in front of Mr. Timm’s ranch last Saturday to go 4-wheeling on his trails. Tom unhitched the entrance gate and road his bicycle to the barn where he found Mr. Timm’s quad parked under the lean-to. “L--Look at this. Spit polished and ready to ride. Mr. Timm is awesome.”

Jason grabbed a helmet from storage and handed it to Tom. “I’m glad he lets you use his or we couldn’t ride here. Did you see Carl yesterday? He raced his quad into my sister’s bike and made her fall into the ditch. My dad was really mad.”

Tom shoved his helmet on and snapped the strap. “No.” He grabbed the keys from under the rock and swung a leg over the seat.

Sunrays sparkled off Jason’s new 4-wheeler when he backed it out of the way. “You get an allowance don’t you?”

“Yeah.”

“So save up for your own quad. I bought mine. It only took two months.”

Tom gazed at Jason’s 4-wheeler. It’d take a lifetime of allowance for me to buy a quad like that. “My mom said we might be able to buy one next year.” But, I don’t think we’ll have the money—ever.

“You want to take the trail by Miller’s Creek?”

Tom raced forward. “Beat you there!”

They raced through the roller coaster trail leading down to the creek. Splashing along the riverbed they wove around rocks and twined through trees cheering like Olympians on a marathon. The course led to the western edge of the ranch where a twenty-foot cliff marked the property line.

Tom slammed on the brake a few feet before the edge. He and Jason hopped off their quads and ran for the edge, daring each other to jump. Tom dug his feet into the ground to keep his balance and noticed something beyond Jason. “Wait. Look there’s someone crouching by the fence over there.”

Jason squinted. “That’s Carl’s quad—I’d recognize it anywhere.”

Tom stepped around Jason. “Hey, what’re you doing here?”

Carl whipped around and slid something in his pocket. “Nothin’. What gives you the right to be here? Buzz off. Oh, and I’ll be sure to tell Mr. Timm you stole his quad. Didn’t think you had it in you.”

“I didn’t—“

Jason sighed. “Leave him alone, Carl.”

“Shows ya anyone dressed in rags can be a thief. Way to go.”

Tom turned away.

Jason glared at Carl then ran after Tom and yanked his arm. “You’re not going to stand up to him?”
Tom kept walking towards the 4-wheeler. Jason edged close, flinging his arms forward. “Tom? What’s the matter with you? Why do you let him walk all over you?”

Tom ignored him and started his quad. He tried to shut out Carl’s snide laughter. A mile down the road he pulled to the side and climbed off the quad. Jason slammed his 4-wheeler next to Tom’s. “What’s gotten into you? Why’d you let him talk to you like that?”

Tom shook his head and plopped on the ground. “I can’t.”

“Can’t? Can’t what? Stand up for yourself?”

“Last Sunday I went to church.”

“So?”

“So—I heard about Jesus, God’s Son, and what He’s done for me. He took the punishment for all the bad things I’ve ever done. Everything. They told me at the church that Jesus loves me. He loves me so much that He was willing to leave His perfect home in Heaven to take the punishment for all the bad things I’ve ever done. I—I asked Jesus to help me. I—I believe in Jesus.”

Jason shrugged. “What does Jesus have to do with your not standing up to Carl?”

Tom yanked a blade of grass, tearing pieces away and letting them fall. “I just don’t want to do bad things any more.”

"Whatever." Jason stood and went back to his quad. “If he treated me like that, I’d fight him.”

“And then what?”

“And then he’d know not to threaten me.” Jason raised his chin. “Time’s wasting I’ll race you to Snake Pit.”
**** To Be Continued on Saturday's Post

Easter Dot to Dot Game

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Print this page then connect the dots.



COLOR YOUR PICTURE AND HANG IT UP FOR EASTER:)
How else could you share this picture? Click on the comment button to tell us.



Here is the answer to last week's puzzle

The Cover-Up

By Mary Vee
Genesis 37:29-35
The brothers cheered tossing their coins in the air and slapping each other other on the back. Simeon, Dan, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Levi, Judah, Zebulun, and Naphtali felt like having a party. They didn't even notice Reuben coming back from checking on the sheep.

Reuben scratched his head. "What's going on?" He noticed his brothers tossing money in the air. "Where'd you get the money from?"

Simeon walked over to his brother and slapped him on the back. He could barely talk with all the laughing. "Reuben. Reuben, you missed the most exciting time." He turned to his brothers. "Right? Am I right?"

The brothers cheered again. Reuben shook his head. "What? What'd I miss?"
Judah stepped forward. "We got rid of Joseph." He chuckled and slapped his knee. "We did it! We're free."

Reuben's face grew red. "Got rid of Joseph? What do you mean got rid of Joseph."

Dan and Gad rolled their eyes. "Don't worry. He's safe."

"Safe? Where?" Reuben huffed.

Simeon stepped closer and set his hand on Reuben's shoulder. "There was a caravan. Traveling Ishmaelites taking their wares to Egypt to sell. We sold Joseph to them. Here hold out your hand--this is your share."

Reuben flung his hand behind his back. "Don't give me that. I--we--" He ran to the pit and kneeled down. He shaded his eyes to see better. "Where's Joseph? I left him right here!" Reuben's heart raced. He looked toward the sky. "I wanted to take him back home." He tore his clothes and huffed. "What did they do?" He ran back to his brothers. "Where's Joseph?"

Asher and Issachar shrugged. "We told you. We sold him to the Ishmaelites. What's the problem? He's gone--we're rid of him."

Reuben paced and wrung his hands. "What am I going to do? Joseph is no more; and I, where can I go? I'm the one who has to tell Father. I'm the one responsible."

Simeon walked near him. "Calm down. I have an idea. We have his special coat that Father made for him. We dip it into the blood of a goat then take it to him. We can ask him if it's Joseph coat and let him figure out what happened."

Reuben walked a short distance away. He punched his fist into his hand and paced. After a short, he returned to his brothers. "I don't like it, but it seems to be the only thing we can do."

The brother hurried the sheep back to their father's home. When he came out to greet them they showed him the coat. "Father, we found this. Do you know if it is Joseph's?"

Jacob looked at the coat. Tears dripped down his cheeks. He grabbed the coat and held it close. "It is my son's tunic. A wild beast has devoured him. Without doubt Joseph is torn to pieces." He collapsed to his knees and tore his clothes. He wept. "Joseph, my son."

Reuben and his brothers tried to comfort their father, but nothing they said did any good. Jacob wept for days. He couldn't stop. He wept for his son Joseph."

What do you think would have happened if Reuben or any of the other brothers told their father the truth? Most likely they would have been punished. They probably would have to go find Joseph. What else? Selling Joseph as a slave really wasn't a good idea. Lying to their father made matters worse. What could you learn from this story? Click the comment button to tell us.

Slaves for Sale

By Mary Vee
Genesis 37: 25-28

Simeon's stomach growled. "Ignore Joseph's cries. I'm hungry." Levi, Dan and the other brothers agreed. They walked away from the pit and unpacked their lunch.

Judah sat under the tree and sprawled out comfortably on the grass. "Think about it, brothers, we could get rid of Joseph and not have to worry about him tattling on us any more."

Issachar laughed. "Who will be father's favorite son then? Maybe me!"

The other brothers laughed until Simeon stood with his fist raised. "If anyone's the favorite, it should be Reuben. He's the oldest."

Judah set his food down. "We were just joking. Come on, sit under the tree and cool off that temper."

Simeon plopped on the ground. "I'll be happy when this is over."

Joseph called up from the pit. "Hey get me out of here. I mean it!"

Simeon balled up his fists. "Can't someone make him be quiet?"

Gad pointed past Simeon toward the road. "Look! There's a caravan. I wonder what their selling?" The brothers ran to see.

Their eyes went wide. Judah gazed at the spices, balm, and myrrh. He turned to one of the Ishmaelites and held up his hand. "Can you wait a moment? Let me talk with my brothers."

"Sure." He reached up and pulled out more items for sale. "Take your time."

Judah called his brothers over. "I have an idea. Listen to this...what good is it to kill Joseph and hide his blood? We could sell him to these Ishmaelites. We'd get money to spend any way we want AND be rid of Joseph. After all, he is our brother."

Simeon stoked his beard. "I like it. We could split the money 8 ways--"

Asher pressed forward. "Don't you mean 9? Reuben isn't here right now, but he helped us put that squirt down in the pit."

Simeon nodded. "Yes. You're right. We split 9 ways. Agree?"

The brothers nodded. Judah led the way back to the pit. They lowered a rope and dangled it in front of Joseph's face. Simeon laughed. "Grab the rope little brother."

Joseph looked up. "You better be sorry...this wasn't funny you know." He grabbed the rope and pulled himself to the opening. His brothers heaved him to his feet. Joseph smoothed his clothing and sighed. "When are you guys gonna--"

Simeon grabbed Joseph's arm. Joseph's eyes went wide. "Where we going?"

The brothers dragged Joseph to the traders caravan. Judah stood out front while the others held their younger brother. "We have an offer. We want to sell this slave to you."

The Ishmaelites looked at Joseph and nodded. "You have a deal. We pay 20 shekels." The trader pulled out the money and gave it to Judah. Two other traders grabbed Joseph and tied him to a camel. "Nice doing business with you."

Simeon held his hand out to get his share. He laughed. "Finally, we're rid of him."

As the caravan disappeared down the road, Reuben returned. He looked at his brothers. "What's going on? Where did you get that money? Where's Joseph?"

It's easy to be fooled into thinking we can do bad things and not get caught. Satan loves to fool us. Maybe we don't know the answer to a question on a test but the person next to us is busy writing something. Maybe we see a coin on the ground but we also see someone who just stood at the same place. Is that finder's keepers? What are other ways Satan tries to fool us? What can we do when Satan tries to fool us? Click on the comment button to say what you think.

Let's Play What's Joseph's Dream

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: USING THE CLUES BELOW, SOLVE THE CROSSWORD PUZZLE. If you need help read the last week's stories on God Loves Kids blog, or check Genesis 37.



ACROSS:
3. How many older brothers Joseph had
4. Brother who didn't want Joseph killed
7. Joseph was thrown into
8. Joseph's mother in his second dream
9. What Joseph's brother's called him
11. Joseph's brothers in his second dream
12. How many dreams Joseph had.
DOWN:
1. Joseph saw in his first dream
2. Joseph's father in his second dream
5. Who Joseph told about his dreams
6. the brother's bundles _____ to Joseph
10. sent Joseph to check on the sheep.

HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON TO SAY YOU FINISHED THE PUZZLE.

Here is the answer to last week's puzzle:

Bullies

By Mary Vee
Genesis 37: 12-24

Reuben and his ten brothers searched for fresh pasture in Shechem. They'd led their family's flock for many days away from their home in Hebron and had become concerned about the animals. "Let's go further north. There should be decent grass in Dothan." His brothers agreed. The sheep bleated and fussed as the shepherds pressed them to move forward.

As they neared Dothan, Simeon shaded his eyes from the sun. "Hey, look at that pasture! It's perfect. We can take a break while the sheep eat." The brothers slapped each other on the back and cheered.

An hour later their family's flock grazed on hearty grass. Dan sat under a tree and drank some water. He noticed someone in the distance. He squinted and realized Joseph, their little brother, was walking toward them. "Hey, Reuben, look. Here comes trouble."

Reuben slapped his forehead. "What's he doing here?"

Gad turned to him. "What do you mean?"

Dan pointed. "Look back at the road. I'd recognize that coat of many colors anywhere." Dan waved to the other brothers. "Look. There's Joseph. The dreamer who says we'll bow down to him."

Reuben leaned against the tree. "He shouldn't have come."

The other brothers laughed and shouted. "We should kill him. That'd get rid of the trouble maker." "Yeah, we're far away from home." "Father always treats him better than the rest of us. Let's see what happens when his favorite son disappears."

Reuben held his hand up. "Wait. Slow down. We can't kill Joseph."

The brothers shook their head. "What? Why not? He's been nothing but trouble since the day he was born." "Yeah, Let's kill him."

Reuben pushed his way into the middle of his brothers. "I tell you, we can't kill him. Here, I have an idea. See that pit? You could thrown him into there. That would leave him out here in the wilderness where no one would know to save him. At least his blood won't be on our hands. What do you say?"

The brothers stood quiet for a few moment. Simeon peered over at Joseph who was getting closer to them. "OK. Let's throw him into the pit. That would get him out of the way. Who knows, maybe a wild animal will come." The brothers laughed. They piled their hands together and shook on the idea then sat under the tree to wait for Joseph.

Reuben wiped sweat from his forehead. At least they won't kill him.

Joseph arrived a little while later. Levi stood. "So, you found us."

Joseph wiped his hands on his tunic. "Ahh, yeah. Father told me to see if everything is well with you and the flocks."

The other brothers stood and joined Levi. Joseph took a step back. The brothers grabbed Joseph and yanked his coat of many colors off. One shouted, "Here's what you get for being a trouble maker." They dragged Joseph to the pit and threw him in.

Joseph tumbled to the bottom. "My head! My leg! Let me out. Please help me out of here."

Reuben stepped back. I can't stand hearing him scream. He walked to the pasture to check on the sheep. I'll let the other's have their fun for a while then sneak back, pull Joseph out of the pit, and send him home.

Reuben cringed with each dastardly cheer from his brothers. He kneeled by one of the sheep. "I hope they keep their word. What would father say if they killed Joseph? He'd blame me." The lamb looked up at him and bleated.

Sometimes we see someone being picked on. What can we do? Reuben didn't want Joseph to be killed, but he didn't want his brothers to turn on him either. If Reuben could hear you, what would God want you say to him? Do you think Reuben made a wise choice when he told his brothers to throw Joseph in the pit? What's going to happen to Joseph?

Dreams

By Mary Vee
Genesis 37:5-11

A chill breeze whipped through Joseph's tent. He shivered and yanked his blanket to his chin. I wish I could sleep. He yawned and rolled onto his side.

A few seconds later Joseph flopped over on his other side. I just know Simeon and Levi are going to pound me tomorrow for telling on them. Maybe they'll take off and leave me the work. That would be better than getting beat up.

Joseph squirmed again. At some point, he wasn't sure when, he found himself standing in a field binding sheaves with his brothers. Each one bundled his own sheaves then left the bundle lying on the ground. Joseph stepped back from his bundle. He reached down to gather more sheaves to bundle when something strange caught his eye.

He turned and watched his brothers bundled sheaves stand up on their own. His bundle stood as well. Joseph dropped the sheaves he gathered and blinked. He rubbed his eyes and then saw His brother's bundled sheaves bowed before his bundle.

Joseph shook his head and opened his eyes. He sat up in bed and took a deep breath. "Whoa. That was a weird dream." He opened the tent flap and gazed at the black sky dotted with stars. Still night out. Good. I can get some decent sleep

He closed the tent flap and crawled back into bed. Before Joseph knew it, morning came. He sauntered to the breakfast table. His brothers ignored him.

Jacob looked up. "Didn't you sleep well?"

"Actually, I had a weird dream. I dreamt we were binding sheaves in the field. My sheaf stood, as did all of yours. Then your sheaves bowed to mine."

His brothers faces became red. Simeon pounded his fist on the table. "Are you saying you're going to reign over us like some kind of king?" The brothers slammed their food on the table, got up, and stomped away.

That night Joseph had trouble getting to sleep again. He rolled around in his bed, yanked his blankets, and tried everything he knew to help him sleep. At some time, he found himself standing outside. The sun, moon, and eleven stars shone brightly in the sky. How weird. I've never seen stars, the sun and the moon at one time in the night sky. As he stood watching the sun, moon, and the eleven stars bowed to him. He took a step back and tripped. Before he landed on the ground he opened his eyes and realized it was a dream.

When Joseph sat at the breakfast table, Dan and Gad snickered and pointed at him. His other brothers joined in with their own mocking.

Jacob set his food down. "Didn't sleep well again, Son?"

"Ummm. I had another unusual dream. I dreamed the sun, the moon, and eleven stars bowed to me."

Jacob huffed. "You mean to say your mother, your brothers, and I will bow to the earth before you?"

Joseph kept quiet. His brothers turned to each other. "Why does he dream these dreams. Why is he the special one. Aren't we older? Shouldn't we have special dreams?"

Jacob stroked his beard. He didn't stop his sons from stomping away from the table. "Maybe you better not go with your brothers to care for the sheep today. You can help around here."

Joseph swallowed. "Thank you, Father."

No one seemed to know what to do about Joseph's dreams. His brothers were angry and jealous, his father was unsure, and Joseph didn't really know what to do either. When someone near you does something special do you get jealous? If they win an award or write the best story does that bother you? How does God want us to act when someone else does something better than us?

Shepherd's Maze

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Poor Joseph was left to tend the sheep by himself. Those rascal lambs kept wondering away. Help Joseph find the lost lamb.



CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON AND TELL US IF YOU FOUND THE SOLUTION TO THE PUZZLE.

HERE IS THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE:

Jacob showed his love for God by burying the false gods His family had under a tree at Shechem.

HOW DID YOU DO? YOU CAN CLICK BACK TO LAST MONDAY TO SEE THIS PUZZLE.

Big Brothers

By Mary Vee
Genesis 37:1-4

Joseph wrapped his special coat around his body. He smoothed out a few wrinkles, raised his chin, and proudly walked out to the fire.

Joseph gave a small bow to his father. "Breakfast smells good."

Jacob waved his son over. "Joseph, come. Join me for our morning meal."

Dan, Naphtali, Gad and Asher spread their elbows to take up more room. Joseph rolled his eyes and walked to the other side of the table. Reuben, Judah, Levi, Simeon leaned over to the side and Issachar and Zebulun tipped the other way. Joseph couldn't find an open place to sit.

Jacob laughed. "All right, quit teasing your brother. Move over to make room."

Joseph squeezed into the small place at the end.

Jacob took another bite of his breakfast. "Today I want you boys to take the flocks out to new pasture. I've notice a few have been injured by bushes or thorns. Take good care of them. I'll see you this evening when you return."

Dan and Naphtali stood "accidentally" shoving their bodies into Joseph. His food popped out of his hand and dropped to the ground. They walked away laughing. Little Benjamin toddled up to Joseph and picked up the food. He shoved it in Joseph's bowl. Joseph smiled when the little boy hugged his leg. "Thanks, little brother. Go play, I have work to do."

Joseph stuffed the last of his meal down his throat then ran to catch up with the others. He didn't mind working with the sheep. It was a peaceful job except when his older brothers treated him like a servant or played mean jokes on him. Sometimes he wished he could take care of the sheep by himself, then he wouldn't have to put up with them.

That afternoon, Jacob's sons found a pasture with plenty of green grass. Joseph kept busy shooing the wandering sheep back to the fold. He looked up and noticed his brother walking away from the sheep.

Joseph sat on a rock near a lamb. "They wouldn't care if you lost your way." The yearling looked up at his shepherd and bleated. Joseph pat the little animal's head.

Shortly before sundown, the brothers returned. They drove the sheep back home then plopped down for dinner. Joseph secured the gate and walked over to his father's tent. "Father, may I speak with you."

"Sure, Joseph."

Joseph opened the tent flap. "Father, today, in the pasture, Simeon and the others left me with the work. Once we arrived, they took off and didn't return until nearly sundown."

Jacob stroked his beard. "I'll talk with them about this. Go now, eat your supper."

Later that evening Joseph noticed his brothers gathered around Jacob's tent. When his father walked away, his brothers pounded their fists together and raised their arms in the air. He hid behind a tree. Oh no! They're going to beat me up for sure.

He sneaked to his tent and whipped open the flap. What will I do when we go to the pasture tomorrow?

Joseph laid back on his bed. Maybe I shouldn't have told on them. Their going to pound me for sure tomorrow. Joseph tried to sleep. He rolled this way and that. The night seemed to last forever.

Joseph's big brother's liked to pick on him. This was difficult for Joseph to deal with. In the next few stories we'll learn more about Joseph and his brothers. The good news is: God remains faithful to Joseph, he protects him and leads him to a very important job.

What does God want you to do when an older kid picks on you? Clue - Think about what Jesus did when the pharisees picked on Him.

Daddy

By Mary Vee
Genesis 35:27-29

A nearby donkey brayed. Jacob rubbed the sleep from his eyes and opened his tent flap. The table had been set for breakfast already. "Good morning everyone."

Leah looked up from her work. "Good morning, husband. You slept late this morning."

"Yes, I must admit I did. It sure felt good."

Jacob sat at the table. "Oh God, giver of all things, thank you for this food. Please bless it to our bodies. Amen"

Jacob picked at his breakfast, eating only a few bites. "Our journey is almost over. We should arrive at my father's home soon."

Leah smiled. "The children are looking forward to meeting him."

"He's old." Jacob sighed. "He could barely see when I left home over twenty years" ago." I hope he's still alive.

Jacob noticed his sons playing with the sheep. He called to a servant. "Tell everyone to break camp."

"Yes, Master." The servant hurried to tell those nearby.

Within an hour Jacob's family traveled further south down the road toward Mamre. As they walked, Jacob told stories about his grandpa Abraham. "Abraham lived in Mamre when his nephew was kidnapped. No one could conquer the bad guys. Grandpa gathered a bunch of men and chased down the kidnappers. He freed not only my cousin Lot, but also all the other people who were prisoners."

Judah, Levi, and Gad loved listening to the stories. "Tell us more."

Jacob did. He told stories about his Grandpa Abraham and his dad, Isaac until they finally arrived at Mamre.

Jacob ran to his father's house. "Dad. I'm home!" Jacob opened the door. He found Esau at their father's bedside. "Esau, how is Father?"

Esau shook his head. "I'm glad you came. We should call everyone here. He won't live much longer."

Jacob inched closer. "Dad? Daddy? I'm back. I brought my family to meet you." Isaac's eyes remained closed. Jacob watched his father's chest rise slightly with each breath. He kneeled beside the bed and took his father's hand.

The door creaked open. Jacob looked up and saw his sons peaking in. "Come in sons. Come meet your Grandfather." Jacob introduced each son to Isaac then sent them out of the house.

Later that night, after living one hundred and eighty years, Isaac breathed his last. The family gathered together and gave each other hugs. Esau and Jacob told stories about their father. They talked about the time Isaac refused to fight to keep his well. As a result he saved his family and brought peace to the area. Esau and Jacob son's realized how important their grandfather was and how he loved and obeyed God.

Esau and Jacob buried their father as he wanted to be.

The Bible says: some day we all will die. How will you be remembered. Will others know you loved and obeyed God? What can you do to help others know you love and serve God?

What's Under the Tree?

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Find the answer to the math problem. Write the word from the box in the blank below that matches the correct answer to each math problem.




HOW DID YOU DO? Click on the Comment button to tell us if you found the answer.


HERE IS THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE:

Jacob Says Goodbye to His Beloved Rachel

By Mary Vee
Genesis 35: 8-20

Shortly after Jacob's family arrived in Bethel he heard the news that His mother's nurse died. Jacob sighed and bowed his head. He turned to Leah and Rachel. "My mother loved Deborah. She helped her throughout her life. She was like a grandmother to Esau and me."

Rachel tried to comfort him. She rested on a nearby rock and felt the baby move in her belly. "This child is wearing me out!"

Jacob noticed her pale skin. This childbirth will be difficult for her. I better hurry everyone along to get us to my father's home before the baby is born.

He helped Rachel on a camel then signaled his whole household to continue the journey. Rachel groaned as the animal stood. The sun rose and fell in the sky as they moved closer and closer to Bethlehem.

A short distance before they reached the city, Rachel called out to Jacob. "We must stop. The baby is coming."

Jacob ordered servants to set up a tent for her at once. He helped her to the freshly made bed then went outside to wait while the nurse took care of her. He leaned closer to the tent to hear what was happening.

"Don't be afraid, Rachel." the nurse said. "Your baby is going to be fine."

"I want to name him. Tell Jacob his name is Ben-Oni."

"I will. Now breathe."

Moments later a baby cried. Jacob smiled. "I have another son."

One of the servants peeked her head out of the tent. "Master Jacob, you have a son. He is to be called Ben-Oni."

Jacob shook his head. "Ben-Oni? No that won't do. We will call him Benjamin."

Jacob listened again carefully. I hear the baby, but I can't hear Rachel. She must be sleeping.

Soon the nurse pulled the tent flap back. She held the new baby in her arms. "I'm sorry, Master Jacob. Rachel did not live."

"She, what? My Rachel, what?"

The nurse sighed. "I'm sorry, master, She did not live. Your son, though, is healthy."

Jacob covered his eyes. He forced air to seep into his lungs. "My Rachel. My beautiful Rachel." His thoughts flew back to the day he met her. How lovely she was. He helped her with the sheep then she ran to her father's home, forgetting everything. Jacob smiled then wept.

Jacob buried his wife, Rachel nearby. He set a pillar on her grave to let everyone know where she rested. As he patted the last stone into place, Baby Benjamin cried.

Today's story is a sad one. On the day this story was written, an earthquake struck Chili. Tragedies like that happen every day. They remind us that earth is not our real home. We are here only for a visit. Someday each of us will either go to live with Jesus or go to live in a terrible place call Hell. Heaven is the real home for everyone who asks Jesus into their heart. Heaven can be your real home, too, if you believe Jesus died for your sins and ask Him to be your Savior. If you have questions or would like to talk more about asking Jesus into your heart email me at mimary_vee@yahoo.com.

Shechem's gods

By Mary Vee
Genesis 35:1-15

Jacob watched his brother, Esau, and the 400 men with him disappear over the horizon. Rachel gazed into Jacob's eyes. "Are we going to follow him?"

"I'm having second thoughts about meeting up with Esau." Jacob paced a few steps. "Sure, he was nice and welcomed all of us with opened arms, but maybe he's planning an attack when we're closer to my parent's home."

Rachel looked further down the road. "You don't really believe that, do you? He seemed genuinely happy to see you. If he wanted to attack, wouldn't he have done so right here where you parents wouldn't find out?"

Jacob stroked his beard. "Perhaps. For now, we'll travel as far as Shechem. I'll buy land there for us to settle on. It's a nice city and it's part of the land God promised my family, AND it's far from Esau."

Jacob did as he said. He purchased land, set up his home and built an altar to God. While his family lived there, his sons and daughter caused trouble with the people which ended in a terrible war. People from nearby cities became angry. Beads of sweat dripped down Jacob's face. He shoved his hand into his fist. "Those kids are going to get us all killed."

That night God spoke to Jacob in a dream. "Jacob, you need to move on to Bethel. That is where you should live. At that place you can make an altar to the God who appeared to you when you fled from the face of Esau your brother."

Jacob woke. He stepped out of his tent and gazed up. The stars still blinked in the dark sky. What's the matter with me? God told me to return to Bethel once when I ran away from home, another time when He told me to leave Uncle Laban's house, and now this time. Three times he had to tell me. When am I going to make wise decisions?

He looked to the east at the horizon and noticed a glimmer of color in the sky. May as well wake everyone. It'll take a while to pack.

Jacob woke a few family members and sent them to wake the others. "There will be a meeting by the fire in a few minutes. Everyone is to come, family, servants, everyone."

A large group of people gathered, rubbing the sleep from their eyes and chattering to each other. Jacob held out his hand to hush the voices. "Listen everyone. God spoke to me in a dream last night. He told me to go to Bethel."

Joseph ran to his father. "Isn't that near Grandpa's house?"

"Yes, it is."

"I can't wait. Can we leave now?"

Jacob smiled and turned back to the others. "Look, I know some of you have foreign gods. I've been wrong allowing you to keep them. You are to get rid of them and purify yourselves. Wash and put on fresh clothes. Once we've honored God in this way, we can leave for Bethel. I'll make an altar to God there and honor Him for helping us. Go, get ready to leave."

The people went to their tents. It didn't take long before a pile of foreign gods lay on the ground next to the fire. They even gave Jacob their golden earrings.

Jacob grabbed a shovel and dug a hole under a Terebinth tree nearby. He called two of his sons. "Simeon, Levi, dump everything from that pile into this hole."

After a couple of trips, his sons cleared the pile and stood back. Jacob scooped dirt to cover the hole and pressed the dirt firmly down. He swiped sweat from his face. He turned to his household. "Clean yourselves and pack. I want to leave by the time the sun is straight up in the sky."

A few hours later, Jacob led his family toward Bethel. All along the way, God protected them.

Do you think Jacob made the right choice to live in Shechem? How do we know God didn't want Jacob to live in Shechem? God told Jacob in a dream to leave and go to Bethel. What did Jacob do before he left, and why?

Is there something that is so important to you that you think about it when you should be thinking about God?

When Jacob Goes Marching Home Again Word Search

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS LISTED BELOW THE PUZZLE



ANIMALS
BLESSING
BOWED
BROTHER
CHILDREN
DOUBT
ESAU
FORGIVE
GOD
HIP
HOBBLE
HUG
ISRAEL
JACOB
NAME
PRESENT
RIVER
SEPARATE
WIVES
WRESTLE

HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK ON THE COMMENT BUTTON TO SAY YOU FINISHED!

Here is the answer to last week's puzzle

Oh, Dear Brother, You've Come Home At Last

by Mary Vee
Genesis 33:1-16

"Oh, no! There he is." Jacob lowered his hands from shading his eyes. "All right everyone. Stay calm. We'll break into the groups just like we practiced."

He called Bilhah and Zilpah first. "Get your sons and go to the front of our family." Bilhah called Dan and Naphtali. Zilpah called Gad and Asher. The six of them walked cautiously to the front of the family.

Jacob then called Leah. "Have your children stand by you. You will be the next group." Leah called Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulum, and Dinah. The eight of them stood behind Bilhah and Zilpah and their children.

Jacob walked over to Rachel. "Keep Joseph close to you. Stand behind Leah and her children."

Rachel's eyes teared. "But Jacob, I'm scared."

Jacob lifted her chin. "Don't be afraid. You'll be safe. God will protect us." He smiled and walked to the front of his family.

His eye twitched and his mouth tasted dry. He glanced at his brother. Please don't hurt my family. Jacob dropped to the ground and bowed seven times as he moved toward his brother, Esau.

He heard footstep running toward him. Jacob looked up and saw Esau with his arms open wide. "Jacob, Oh Jacob. How I've longed to see you. You are home at last."

Esau grabbed his brother and hugged him. The two brothers wept together. "Jacob, my brother, who are these women and children with you?"

Jacob stood tall, wiped his eyes, and laughed. "These, dear brother, are my children whom God has graciously given your servant." Jacob waved his family to come. Bilhah and Zilpah brought their children forward to bow before Esau. Next Leah brought her children forward to bow.

Jacob ran back to Rachel and Joseph. He gazed in her eyes. "It's OK. I'll walk with you. Come meet Esau." The three bowed down to respect Esau.

Esau shrugged his shoulders and pressed his hands forward. "Jacob what was the meaning of all the animals you sent before your family?"

I wish to find favor in your sight, my lord."

Esau shook his head. "No. I have enough. Keep what you have for yourself."

Jacob smiled. "Please, dear brother. If I have found favor in your sight, receive this present from my hand. I can't tell you how much it means to see you pleased with me. I ask you to take this blessing I give to you, because God has dealt graciously with me and because I have enough."

Esau stroke his beard and nodded. "Very well, I shall accept your gift." He reached out and gave Jacob another hug. "I've got a great idea."

Jacob stepped back a step and gazed into his brother's eyes. "What?"

"We could all travel back together. My men and I will go first to protect your family. What do say? Isn't it a great idea?"

Jacob looked back at his family. I'm not sure if I can trust him. He has four hundred men with him. Maybe he'll use this as an opportunity to attack my family.

He looked back at Esau. "My children are weak, and some of the young animals still nurse. If the men drive them too hard to keep up, they will die. You go ahead. I will lead at a pace which the livestock and children are able to endure until I meet up with you in Seir."

Esau's smile fell into disappointment. "What if I leave some of my men to help?"

Jacob sighed. "Dear brother, I've brought my family this far. You go. I'll meet you there."

Jacob's brother forgave him! Esau welcomed Jacob home with a hug! Did Jacob believe he was forgiven? Sometimes we don't believe God forgives us. How can this story help you? Click the comment button to tell us what you think.

God Blesses Jacob and Gives Him a New Name

by Mary Vee
Genesis 32:13-32

Jacob's eyes popped open. Dawn. Better get moving. Let's see, what should I give Esau to keep him from attacking my family?

Jacob wandered out to his herds. I'll select some of my finest animals. He separated 220 goats, 220 sheep, 30 milk camels and their colts, 50 cattle, and 30 donkeys. Jacob looked the group of animals over. Yes, this should make Esau happy.

Once Jacob guided the goats, sheep, camels, cattle,and donkeys away from the other animals, he returned to the camp for breakfast.

Joseph ran to him and gave him a hug. "Momma says I'm gonna see Uncle Esau soon."

Jacob smiled. "That's right. Run along and play with your brothers." He gave his son a gentle push.

Jacob shoved his breakfast down his throat. I need to get everyone moving. Once all my possessions are split and we're on the road, I'll feel better.

The second after he swallowed the last bite of food, a loud, rumbling burp roared from his stomach. All his sons, daughter, servants, and wives burst out laughing. Gad and Issachar rolled on the ground, holding their stomach while chortling. Reuben, Simeon, and Levi held their breath to keep from laughing, but failed. A sudden guffaw kept everyone laughing.

Jacob held his hand up. "Settle down everyone." It didn't help. Once a laugh starts, its hard to make it stop.

He waved a few servants over to him. "Come with me." Jacob led them to the family herds. "I've set apart these animals as a gift for my brother, Esau. Take them ahead of the rest of the camp, keeping each type separate. Drive one group of animals behind the other."

Jacob turned to the highest ranking servant. "Take your group first. When you see my brother, tell him 'These animals belong to your servant Jacob. It is a present to my lord Esau. He is coming behind us."

Jacob repeated the instructions to the four other servants, reminding them to approach Esau one at a time. They ran back to the camp to pack their belongings then left.

After the sun set and the temperatures were cooler, Jacob led his family toward the river. When they reached the water, he helped his family cross. He went back across the brook to help move their supplies across. Back and forth he went, helping. His family set to work arranging a camp for the night.

Jacob took one last look around for anything forgotten. He looked to his left. Is that a person I see? Alone, out here? The Man came closer and wrestled Jacob to the ground.

Jacob realized he was wrestling with the Angel of the Lord. They battled until the sun began to rise. The Angel touched Jacob's hip and pushed it out of joint. Jacob held tight and shouted, "I will not let You go unless You bless me."

The Lord said, "What is your name?"

Jacob replied, "Jacob."

The Lord said, "Your name will now be called Israel, for you've struggled with God and men and have prevailed." Moments later the Lord blessed him there.

Jacob stood. He watched the Man leave and said, "I have seen God face to face and my life is preserved." He took a step to cross the water and felt a sharp pain in his hip. Hobbling across the water, he noticed the sun glowing in the eastern sky, starting a new day.

So many things have changed for Jacob since he left his home years ago. He has a family, riches, and now a new name. Jacob's received a new name right before he crossed the water into the promise land. What do you think that means?

Jacob Sandwiched Puzzle

By Mary Vee

Across
1. River Jacob crossed
3. What Jacob did when he was afraid
4. God _________ to take care of Jacob
9. _______lived in Edom
10. Jacob didn't say ____________ to Laban
12. Laban accused Jacob of _______________
Down
2. Jacob felt ___________ about Esau's visit
5. Jacob and Laban showed their promise by using __________
6. Jacob sent _________ to talk to Esau
7. What Rachel kept from Jacob and Laban
8. The man Laban hunted
11. Jacob_____________ his family in two for protection

HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK ON THE COMMENT BUTTON TO SAY YOU FINISHED! The answer will be on next week's puzzle.

Answer to last week's puzzle:

What to do When You're Afraid

By Mary Vee
Genesis 32:1-12

Jacob continued moving his family through the mountains toward his home. With all the children, herds, servants, and belongings, their progress was a little faster than a rout of snails crossing a beach.

Jacob met with some of his servants that night. "I need you to take a message to my brother in Edom. Tell him: I have lived with Uncle Laban until now. I have oxen, donkeys, flocks, and male and female servants. I am sending these messengers to ask if I have found favor in your sight."

The servants nodded. "We'll leave right away."

Many days passed before the messengers returned. Jacob's hands felt sticky from sweat. His heart pounded.

He called the messengers over. "What did my brother say?"

"He said he is coming to meet you. We watched him gather 400 men."

Jacob trembled. He's bringing 400 men? Surely he plans to kill all of us. What am I going to do?

Jacob stopped the camels and found a place to set up camp. The children ran around
playing games while the mothers made dinner. Jacob walked out a ways from the camp with a few trusted servants."

The children's laughter sounded above the donkey's braying. Jacob chuckled. "If only I knew they would be safe."

A servant nodded. "What would you like to do?"

Jacob stroke his beard. "I'm thinking if we divide all the people, flocks, herds, and camels into two companies, some will survive. When Esau comes to the one company and attacks, the other group will have time to escape."

"Good plan. If you'd like I'll divide the animals."

Jacob sighed. "Yes. Yes, that would be fine. I'll divide the people. Jacob took a few steps further. "You can return to the camp. I'll be back in a little while."

Jacob walked a distance further. The sun had set, leaving a red and orange glow in the sky.

He fell to his knees and let his head flop into his hands. "O God of my father Abraham and Isaac. You are the Lord who said to me 'Return to your country and to your family, and I will deal well with you.' I am not worthy of the mercy and truth you have shown me. I crossed over this Jordan River. Now I've become two companies. Deliver me, I pray, from the hand of my brother. I'm afraid he will come and attack me and my family. O Lord, You said, 'I will surely treat you well, and make your descendants as the sand of the sea, which will be so many it cannot be numbered."

Jacob knelt quietly for a few more minutes then stood. He took a deep breath of the cool night air. A few birds twittered in a nearby tree.

Although his mouth was dry and his hands still sticky, his heart slowed its beat. He turned back to the camp and saw his son Reuben walking toward him.

Reuben waved his arm. "Father, dinner is ready."

Jacob tipped his neck back and forth. The stiffness had left. He smiled. "Good! I'm starved.

As Jacob ate he announced to the family, "Tomorrow we'll meet my brother, Esau. Since our group is so large, it will be difficult for my brother to greet us all. We'll split into two groups and rejoin further down the road. Get a good night's sleep, I want you to look good tomorrow."

What did Jacob do when he became afraid? How did that help him? Click on the comment button to tell of a time when you were afraid.

Rachel's Secret

by Mary Vee
Genesis 31:31-55

Rachel set a tray of food down for Jacob. "Here's your lunch."

Jacob smiled. "Sit with me for a while. Do you have time?"

Rachel brushed her hair out of her face. "Sure. What's going on."

"I'm excited about you meeting my mom, dad, and brother." Jacob picked up an olive. "I'm thinking, though, I should have told Laban we were leaving. I'd probably be mad if my daughters and grandchildren suddenly left without saying good bye."

"Don't be concerned." Rachel touched his hand. "I support you in your decision. Father has been unfair to you all these years."

Jacob glanced at the road. He noticed a cloud of dust. "Someone is traveling toward us. There moving fast." He squinted. I hope that isn't Laban.

He stood and watched the cloud grow closer. "Oh, no. I'd recognize those camels anywhere. It's Laban all right."

Rachel's eyes grew wide. "Father? He's here? Um, excuse me, Jacob, I need to um, to hide, I mean take care of something." She ran for her tent as Laban and his men stopped outside their camp.

Laban slid off his camel and approached Jacob. His face grew red and he balled his fist. "Why did you flee with my daughters and grandchildren?

Jacob sighed. "In truth, I was afraid you'd take your daughters away from me by force even though they are my wives."

"But did you have to steal my gods?"

Jacob's jaw dropped. "Your what? No one took your gods. We carefully packed only our things." Does he really think I'd be crazy enough to take something that was his? Jacob shook his head. "Tell you what. You can search everything I have, if you find your gods you can kill the thief. Go search. Show me or anyone else here in my camp the stolen items you find."

Laban stuck his head high. "All right, I will." He signaled his sons and his servants to help him search.

Jacob noticed Rachel peaking her head out of her tent. Why is she hiding from him?

Laban flung back Jacob's tent flap. He threw blankets, tables, pitchers, and clothes around then he huffed over to Leah's tent. He growled at her as he threw her furniture, clothing, and jewels on the floor. "Where are they? Where have you hidden them?"

Leah ran to Jacob with tears dripping down her face. "What is he looking for?"

Jacob held her close. "His gods."

Laban stomped to the two maid's tents, threw things around then walked over to Rachel's tent. Jacob inched closer to her tent then held his finger to his lips to hush the children.

Jacob leaned closer to hear her soft voice. "Excuse me for not getting up, Father. I'm not well." Seconds later Laban whipped open her tent flap.

He didn't find anything. The nerve of him throwing our things around and accusing my family of stealing!

Jacob stomped over to Laban. "Are you satisfied? What is my crime? You searched everything. Where are the stolen items, hmmm? Lay them out here before all of us so I can be judged before this camp."

Jacob threw out his arms and stepped closer. "I served you for twenty years and bore any loss from your herd. I worked while thirsty, cold, and tired. I served you with every bit of my strength, yet, I'm convinced had God not been with me you would have taken everything I earned."

Laban folded his arms. "Everything here is mine." He glanced at each grandchild then turned back to Jacob. "Let's make a promise."

They made a pillar of rocks and promised to not bother each other. Laban arose, kissed his children and his daughters good bye then went home.

Have you figured out what Rachel's secret is? What problem did her secret cause? If you would like help finding the answer, read Genesis 31: 31-43. The answer will also be given in the next story.

Sometimes keeping a secret hurts the people we love.

Aack--Laban Can't Find Jacob

by Mary Vee
DIRECTIONS: Poor Laban is hunting for Jacob, his daughter's and grandchildren. Help him find his way.



DID YOU FIND THE ANSWER? CLICK ON THE COMMENT BUTTON AND LET US KNOW:)

The answer to last week's puzzle is:

Jacob worked hard. God blessed him for obeying.

Laban Hunts for Jacob

By Mary Vee
Genesis 31: 19-29

"Been kinda quiet lately. Usually one of the grandson's find a way to come for a visit." Laban scratched his beard. "Hope everything's all right."

He shrugged and headed out to the flock. "I'm sure one of them will stop by soon enough. In the meantime I'd better get busy shearing the sheep."

Laban pushed the sleeves of his tunic higher. "Sure is a hot one today." He looked toward the pasture. His servants chased a few sheep who walked away from the flock.

Another servant set down tools he'd gather for the shearing. "Master, did you know that Jacob left a few days ago with his family?"

Laban's jaw flopped open. "He did what?"

The servant cleared his throat. "I'm sorry, I thought you knew. Jacob packed his family and his belongings and headed south."

Laban's heart pounded. His face felt warm. "He took my daughter's and my grandchildren without saying good bye? Why that Jacob--I knew I couldn't trust him. You men, secure these sheep then prepare the camels for a journey."

"Are we going to bring Jacob back to help, Master?"

Laban shook his head. He squinted and balled up his fist. "I'll decide when I get there."

Laban, his sons, and a few servants left right away and rode as quickly as they could, taking breaks only when the animals needed one.

One of the son's urged his camel near Laban's. "The road turns ahead. Do you want to keep heading south or follow the road?"

"Most likely he kept on the road for the safety of his family. Stay on the road."

Five days went by. Laban grumbled at the evening fire. "Where are they? We've searched this road and a distance on either side. We should've caught up to them two day's ago."

The men sat silently. Laban got up and paced near a tree. "We break camp before dawn tomorrow. Be ready. I'll find that Jacob if it's the last thing I do."

That night in a dream Laban heard God speaking, "Be careful not to say anything good or bad to Jacob." When he awoke, chills ran up and down his back. What a dream! I can't believe Jacob's God spoke to me!

The group searched for two more days. They rode as fast as the camels would take them. Shortly after the midday sun, Laban held his hand up to shade his eyes and stared. "What's that up ahead?"

One of his men cocked his head left then right to get a better view. "Looks like travelers with a herd."

Laban urged his camel faster. "That must be them. Hurry! I've got them now."

As they neared Jacob's camp, Laban ordered his men to set up tents for the evening. Once they were settled, Laban rode over to meet with Jacob.

Jacob came out to greet his uncle. "Laban. What are you doing here?"

Laban slipped off his camel and stood quiet for a moment. He looked over at his daughters who held their sons back, away from him. "What right did you have stealing away my daughters and grandsons? You left no word. You simply left without saying goodbye. Why did you flee away secretly and not tell me? I might have sent you away with joy and songs played with musical instruments. You didn't allow me to kiss my grandsons and daughters. You have acted so foolishly. You realize I have the power to do you harm? Fortunate for you, the God of your father spoke to me last night, saying 'Be careful to not speak good or bad to Jacob.'"

Laban is angry with Jacob. Do you think he'll make them go back to his house? Do you think he will hurt them or say mean things to Jacob?

God told Jacob it was time for him to go back to the land He gave his father. But, Jacob didn't want Laban to know he was leaving. He was afraid Laban would trick him into staying again. What could Jacob have done to obey God and to respect Laban?

Jacob's Going Home

By Mary Vee
Genesis 31:17-25
Jacob woke extra early this morning. He stretched then pulled his blanket up to his nose. "Wait--What am I doing? --Today, I'm going home!"

He leaped out of bed and danced a jig. "I'm taking my family home to the land God has given my family. They're gonna love it. Oh, I can't wait to see father, and mother, and well--". He raised an eyebrow. "I wonder if Esau will still want to kill me....hmmmm."

Jacob brushed the tent flap away. A servant heaved a heavy trunk on top a camel. Little Joseph ran to Jacob and gave him a hug. He rubbed his eyes then giggled. "Father, I'm going on a long trip to see your father."

"Yes, we all are. You, your mother, all your brothers, all our family will go."

Joseph looked up. "Can I say bye to Grandpa Laban?"

Jacob shook his head. "Not now, Son. His house is three days journey away. Not only that, he's very busy right now. Come. Let's join the others."

Joseph skipped over to his brothers. He sneaked behind his sister Dinah and yanked her hair.

Jacob called the family together. "It's time to leave. We have a long journey, so we best get started." He helped his sons and wives onto their camels.

Leah lost her balance, but Jacob helped to steady her. "Jacob, won't my father be upset that we're not saying good bye before we leave?"

Jacob sighed. "I'd rather not think about him right now. It'd ruin our journey. He's deceived me for the last time."

"But the children--they want to say good bye."

Jacob shook his head. "If he finds out we're leaving, he'll devise a plan to make us stay. No. Not another day. My sons and daughter belong in the land God has given my father, Isaac, and his father, Abraham."

Jacob walked over to Rachel. "Are you OK?"

Rachel smiled. "Yes, of course. I made sure everything was packed."

"That's one thing Laban can't accuse me of." Jacob rolled his eyes. "I've taken nothing that doesn't belong to us." He glanced back at their belongings packed high on the camels. "You checked all the supply trunks, right? There is nothing here that doesn't belong to us, right?"

"Yes, Jacob." Rachel placed her hand on Jacob's arm. "Father would be furious if we took something of his."

"Good." He squeezed her hand and walked to the front of the caravan.

The servants herded the livestock together. Jacob smiled then waved forward. "Let's go!"

He led his family south across the river and desert toward the mountains of Gilead. Time passed quickly. Several days later they reached the mountains. Jacob looked for a flat area to set up camp.

"Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, help stake the tents." As Jacob turned to check on his sons he noticed a group of riders in the distance.

Rachel ran up to Jacob and grabbed his arm. Her eyes were wide. "Father's come after us. What'll we do?"

Jacob stood tall. "Don't worry. God will take care of us."

Do you think Jacob was concerned? His wives and children were Laban's daughters and grandchildren. Jacob moved them away without saying good bye. If someone sneaks something do they really know deep down that they're doing something they shouldn't be doing?

Sometimes sneaking isn't bad, like when you put a present under the Christmas tree without wanting anyone seeing you. You reason for sneaking is to make someone happy. But Jacob didn't sneak away to make Laban happy. Why did Jacob sneak away? What did he do that would have made God sad?

Jacob's Code

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Use the code at the top of the puzzle to find the secret message. CLICK ON THE COMMENT BUTTON TO TELL ME YOU FOUND THE ANSWER:)






HERE IS THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE. How did you do?

Jacob Plans to Take His Family Home

By Mary Vee
Genesis 31:4-16

Jacob paced. One of the lambs playfully followed him back and forth. "Watch out, little one, I don't want to step on you."

He scooped up the bundle of fur. "What do you think I should do? Should I wait until tonight to tell Rachel and Leah, or should I send for them?"

The lamb licked his nose then said "Baaaah."

Jacob laughed. "I agree." He set the lamb back on the ground and gave it a gentle pat. The lamb scurried off and tumbled with another lamb.

Jacob called a servant. "Go to my house. Tell Rachel and Leah I must speak with them."

While the servant delivered the message, Jacob continued his work. "I wonder what they'll say. They've spent their whole lives here. Will my wives willingly leave their father's land to go back with me to my homeland? How should I tell them?"

He rubbed his eyes and paced some more. A moment later he heard Rachel and Leah's voices greeting him from across the pasture.

"Jacob! Are you all right? You've never called us out here before? What's wrong?"

Jacob laughed. "Whoa! I have one answer for all those questions. I'm fine."

Rachel and Leah looked at each other and shrugged. "Then why did you call us?"

Jacob pointed to three boulders. "Sit. I need to tell you something."

Jacob took a deep breath. "I overheard your brothers talking today. They're quite angry that my flock has grown large and strong. They say I've stolen from your father."

Leah rolled her eyes. "I'm not surprised. You have to ignore them, Jacob. They're just talking."

Jacob shook his head. "Not this time. Your father showed his anger by shaking his fist. I saw him from over here."

Rachel sighed. "Really?"

"Yes. Look, you know how hard I've worked for your father. I gave him my best, yet he deceived me and changed my pay ten times. God didn't allow him to hurt me, instead He's taken away Laban's livestock and given them to me."

Jacob leaned closer to them. "God spoke to me today saying, 'I am the God of Bethel where you made a vow to Me. Now arise, get out of this land and return to the land of your family'"

Leah looked at her sister. "Is there any inheritance left for us in our father's house?"

Rachel shook her head. "No. He sold us to make Jacob work for him. He spent all the money he made from Jacob's work and still ignores us."

They turned to Jacob. "Whatever God has said to you, do it."

Jacob took a deep breath. He gazed at the pasture land around him then at his wives. "OK. Pack everything. We leave tomorrow."

God clearly told Jacob when he needed to move away. Jacob had many problem days working for Laban. He probably wanted to leave many times but he didn't. He waited until God told him to go.

God allows us to be in difficult situations to help us learn things. When the time is right, He tells us to go somewhere else. Has this happened to you? How did God show you it was time to leave?

Jacob's Hard Work Earns Rewards

By Mary Vee
Genesis 30:37-31:3

Jacob gulped down the last of his breakfast, tickled little Joseph and Dinah, laughed with his older nine sons then set out to the pasture.

"Time to relieve the night watch." He yawned and stretched. "Today's gonna be a great day. Once my flock is built up to a reasonable size, I'm moving back to the land God gave my family."

Jacob hiked out to his uncle Laban's sheep. He rubbed his hands together and got to work. "Good, here are some rods of green poplar, almond, and chestnut trees." He took each rod and cut a wedge to expose a white strip inside.

He gathered the rods and stood them up in the flock's watering troughs. He stepped back and smiled at his work. "Yes, that looks right."

Each day the sheep came to drink, they saw the striped rods.

Even though Laban had been mean, Jacob gave his best care to Laban's sheep. He made sure they were safe, had plenty to eat and drink, and slept. He wanted them to stay healthy. He taught his sons how to care for their own flock.

Laban hardly spent any time with Jacob any more. Jacob didn't mind. He liked being in charge of the flock. About five months later, new lambs were born. Their fur had streaks, spots, or specks of color!

Since the lambs weren't a solid color, Jacob took the lambs and put them with his other sheep. "Here you go little ones. Laban said I could have all the streaked, spotted, and speckled sheep. So, you are mine."

The next day, Jacob had an idea. He took new poplar, almond, and chestnut tree rods, cut a wedge to show a white stripe and only set them in the sheep's watering trough when strong livestock came to drink.

When the strong livestock had newborns, the baby animals had streaks, spots, or speckles in their fur. The weak livestock's babies did not.

Jacob continued to separate his newborn livestock from Laban's. It didn't take long before he had large flocks, camels and donkeys, and many servants to help.

Leah and Rachel felt proud. Their children had everything they needed and much more.

One day when Jacob tended the sheep he heard Laban's sons talking. "That Jacob is no good! Why, he's taken away everything that belongs to Father. All his riches have come from our land! We've got to do something about this."

Jacob shook his head. How can they say that? I've worked hard. Uncle Laban said I could have all the spotted, speckled, and streaked livestock.

He watched Laban's sons talking to their father later in the afternoon. They waved their hands as they talked. Whew! They're really angry!

Laban shook his head and stroked his beard. He balled up his fist and pounded it into his other hand.

Jacob's eyes grew wide. He turned away and guided one sheep back to the flock. Laban's really angry.

He gazed up at the clouds. "What should I do?"

God spoke to him. "Go back to the land I gave to your fathers. Return to your family and I will be with you."

Finally, the time has come for Jacob to go home to the land God gave his family. He must be happy. God blessed him while he cared for Laban's flock and gave him enough to start his own home back in the land where he grew up. Jacob worked hard, even though Laban tricked him. What reward did Jacob get for working hard even though his uncle treated him mean?

Jacob left his home with his parents because he tricked his brother Esau. Now he plans to leave this place because Laban tricked him. Jacob has learned a lot about hard work, but do you think he has learned not to be mean to others?

Where Are Jacob's Kids? Word Search

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Find Jacob's kids. They're hiding in this word search. The list of names you're looking for are listed below the puzzle.



Reuben
Simeon
Levi
Judah
Dan
Naphtali
Gad
Asher
Issachar
Zebulun
Dinah
Joseph

So, how did you do? click the comment button to tell me.


HERE IS THE ANSWER to last week's puzzle. How did you do? Click on the comment button and tell me.