Jacob has a dream of angels ascending and descending on a ladder to heaven. God speaks to him in the dream in order to reaffirm the promise He made to Jacob’s father and grandfather. Jacob is the seed of promise according to God’s will.

Jacob was self-consumed, even taking the birthright that belonged to his brother—Esau. In this pericope, Jacob admits that he was not seeking God and did not believe God to be with him in the wilderness, in the place he was. Yet, God chose and revealed Himself to Jacob.

The same is true for all people to whom God reveals Himself. We do not naturally look for God. Yet, we encounter Him in the places we least expect because it is God who chooses us, not we Him. He is faithful to keep His promises and follow through with His calling on each one’s life.