August 20

Digging Wells

He moved on from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it. He named it Rehoboth and said, “At last the LORD has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land.” — Gen 26:22 BSB

Isaac’s life may seem somewhat disappointing compared to that of Abraham, the father of faith, and Jacob, who wrestled with the Angel and became a prince. Isaac was more passive and contemplative, inclined toward quiet meditation (Genesis 24:63). Yet, God’s purposes include all types of people, and Isaac dug wells that have provided water for thousands of years.

Isaac faced constant hostility, jealousy, and strife, as the names of his wells suggest. But each time, instead of engaging in conflict, he yielded and moved on to dig another well. Eventually, even his enemies had to admit that he was greater than they were (Genesis 26:16). Best of all, God appeared to him “that same night” and promised to bless him and be with him.

We, too, can learn to elevate our resistance to evil from the physical level to the moral and spiritual one. “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty” (Proverbs 16:32). Keep digging wells—whether through family prayer, love for God’s Word, or holy habits. You will find spring water (Genesis 26:19)—God’s side of your life. You are called to dig wells, but God’s Spirit will rise up like a fountain in your soul, refreshing not only you but others, much like the geyser-springs in Arctic regions (John 4:14). Present yourself—body and soul—as a well, a channel through which God’s eternal love and power can flow to a thirsty world.

God is love, and love is self-giving. But God relies on us, His well-diggers, to create outlets for His love and goodness to reach others.

Prayer

Most Merciful Father, grant us the grace to avoid anything that would dishonor Your Name. May we persevere in all good purposes and serve You faithfully until the end of our lives. Amen.