Genesis 31:17–18 - So Jacob arose and set his sons and his wives on camels. He drove away all his livestock, all his property that he had gained, the livestock in his possession that he had acquired in Paddan-aram, to go to the land of Canaan to his father Isaac.

For 20 years, Jacob worked for his master, Laban, in obedience. And Laban repeatedly cheated him.

In life and the Bible, we see many patterns repeating themselves.

Jacob shared many similarities with his dad (Isaac) and grandfather (Abraham). And God begins a new pattern in Jacob: deliverance from hard service.

The flight of Jacob is an exodus - similar to the Israelites in Egypt - a hard master, hard service and then many people, animals, and riches fleeing:

Exodus 12:35 - they had asked the Egyptians for silver and gold jewelry and for clothing… Thus they plundered the Egyptians. And the people of Israel journeyed… about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides women and children

Moses led them out of Egypt. Jacob led his family out of Haran. In each instance, God saw fit to have Jacob and his chosen people compensated for the years and years of unpaid labor they worked.

To make the trip, a captive must follow the leader.

Jesus now leads a resurrection exodus of his followers out from death:

Luke 4:18 - “He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives”

Ephesians 4:8 - When he ascended on high he led a host of captives

In the meantime, while we live, God leads us out of sin’s oppressive influence:

Romans 6:22 - you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God

The final, ultimate exodus is on. He’s a great Master and Leader! “I am The Way,” he says. Right now, may we follow him the best we know how. And may he call us to come near more closely!