Genesis 31: Keeping Watch
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That place was called Mizpah, [Watchtower] because he said, “May the Lord keep watch between me and thee while we are apart."
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When they are separated, lovers often share Mizpah rings or jewelry to serve as a reminder of God's care and the commitment they share.
When Laban said, "Mizpah," to Jacob, however, it was not so much to show love, but to establish a boundary. They built a stone tower as a reminder: you stay on this side, and I'll stay on that side. And don't forget, God is watching what you do.
Which meaning is correct? Well... both!
After a year of quarantine and social distance we still find ourselves separated from some of those we love. It is a comfort to know that doesn't break the ties of love between us.
God is watching over our loved ones while we are apart.
But the ancients knew that the land remembers, even when we forget. Jesus himself said the stones would cry out if we were silent. Creation remembers.
Call upon the earth itself to keep watch between you and your loved ones--for both love and protection.
God is watching over us--even when we forget.
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Lord, you are my watchtower and my strong defense.
Keep watch over me and my loved ones.
Let Creation rise up to keep us safe.
Keep watch, O Lord, even when I forget.
Mizpah!