Laban was delighted to welcome his nephew, Jacob; and Jacob found it easy to work for Laban and be around Rachel. After a month, Laban said to Jacob, “It’s not fair to you that you should work and not receive payment. What do you think would be a fair wage?” Jacob replied, “I’d like to marry Rachel. I’d be willing to work seven years for Rachel.” “Deal,” said Laban.
The seven years passed quickly for Jacob because he loved Rachel. When it was time for the wedding, Jacob was on the receiving side of Laban’s deceit. He discovered his bride was Rachel’s older sister, Leah. “Our custom doesn’t permit the younger daughter to marry before her older sister; but, for an additional seven years, you may marry Leah’s younger sister, Rachel,” Laban said.
Because Jacob loved Rachel, he agreed to work the additional seven years for her. Meanwhile, God blessed him and his flocks and family expanded. Until, one day, God said to Jacob, “It’s time to go home.” [Reflection based on the Bible Reference – Genesis 29:1 – 31:3]