Scripture Reading: Gen 35:6-7
So Jacob came to Luz, which is in the land of Canaan, that is, Bethel, he and all the people that were with him. And he built there an altar, and called the place Elbethel: because there God appeared unto him, when he fled from the face of his brother.

Reflections: Jacob fled to Haran to escape Esau’s anger after deceitfully taking his birthright and blessing. Along the way, he stopped to rest and had a dream of a ladder reaching to heaven, where God reaffirmed His promises of protection and blessing (Genesis 28:10-22). Jacob named the place Bethel (“House of God”). Years later, God instructed him to return to Bethel, where Jacob built an altar and renamed it El-Bethel (“God of the House of God”). This second naming highlights the deeper importance of a personal relationship with God over simply being associated with a place of worship. The message is clear: when you go to church, your primary focus should be to seek a genuine encounter with God, not just pride in the place itself.

Prayer: Lord, guide me to seek a true encounter with You, not just pride in my church.

Confession: I focus on having a personal relationship with God.