Day 17 · January 17
Kids Corner — Day 17
Genesis 35:1–36:43 · Matthew 12:1–12:21 · Psalm 15:1–15:5 · Proverbs 3:21–3:26
Today’s story
God calls Jacob back to Bethel, where idols are buried and worship is renewed. Esau’s line is also recorded, showing that God continues to govern many nations while preserving the covenant line through Jacob.
Jesus declares himself Lord of the Sabbath, restores a man’s withered hand, and fulfills Isaiah’s picture of the gentle Servant. He does not crush the weak; he brings justice with tenderness.
Psalm 15 describes the kind of life that fits the presence of God: integrity, truth, faithfulness, and reverence. Holiness is profoundly practical.
Guard sound judgment and discretion, and they will preserve your way. Wisdom is a daily protection, not only a lofty ideal.
The story in children’s words
God told Jacob to go back to Bethel, the place of his dream, and build an altar there. Jacob's family put away their false gods, and God kept them safe on the road. God blessed Jacob again and said his new name was Israel, and that kings would come from his family. Rachel died as her baby Benjamin was born, and later old Isaac died too, and Jacob and Esau buried him. Esau's family grew into a whole people in another land. Jesus healed a man's hurt hand on the day of rest, because doing good is always right. The prophet Isaiah said God's chosen servant would be gentle and bring hope to all nations. That servant is Jesus, and the nations put their hope in Him.
It points to Jesus
Jesus is the true Lord of the Sabbath and the gentle Servant who restores what is withered. In him, God’s holy presence comes near without destroying the weak.
Talk about it
What idols had to be buried before Jacob returned to Bethel?