Reflection
In today's readings, we encounter powerful themes of deception, divine promises, and the cost of discipleship. In Genesis, we see the story of Isaac following in his father's footsteps, even repeating some of Abraham's mistakes, while Jacob and Rebekah scheme to obtain the birthright blessing. In Mark 10, Jesus teaches about marriage, welcomes children, challenges a rich young ruler, and continues to explain true discipleship to his followers.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God's purposes prevail even through human imperfection, while true discipleship requires complete surrender and trust in God's ways over our own.

Let's break this down into a simple principle we can apply:

Choose God's eternal perspective over temporary earthly gain, and trust His purposes even when tempted to take matters into our own hands.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Examine your motives: Like Jacob and Rebekah, are you trying to force God's hand in any area of your life?

2. Trust God's timing: Consider where you might be tempted to manipulate circumstances rather than wait on God's providence.

3. Embrace Jesus' teaching: Reflect on His words about marriage, children, and possessions. Are there areas where your values need to align more with His?

4. Check your attachments: Like the rich young ruler, what might you be holding onto that's keeping you from fully following Jesus?

5. Practice servant leadership: Jesus taught that true greatness comes through serving others. How can you serve someone today?

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: What might God be asking you to surrender in order to follow Him more fully?