The first story of Jacob is a sad sign of things to come. Despite God’s promise to bless this younger brother, the “heel-grabber” Jacob uses his intelligence to hustle his older brother. What might seem small, however, starts a pattern of behavior that will ruin Jacob’s family and nearly destroy his life. This account warns us of the “small sins” that will become a pattern of something greater. Finally, it serves as a contrast with Jesus, the “older brother” who chose to give up his birthright of blessing to foolish sinners like us.