The Genesis story of Jacob's family is one of deception, favoritism, jealousy, hatred and a plot to kill. These sins result in great misery for Jacob's entire family for 20 years. It is amazing that God would use these sinful men to move his promise to Abraham forward to the next generation. But this IS the story of God's Mercy and Grace. It's a story we all share as we receive forgiveness for our sin through faith in Jesus' death and resurrection. It is THIS story that gives hope to everyone suffering from the scars of sin in our lives.