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GENESIS 31–33

Week 3, Day 2

Almost all of us have some unfinished business in our lives, and the sooner we deal with it, the better off we’ll be. Jacob had more than his share. These chapters report his handling of each matter.

First, there’s his father-in-law, Laban. When Jacob sensed that trouble was brewing with his brothers-in-law, he fled the territory, but Laban soon caught up with him. In truth, both Jacob and Laban had poor records, and they settled matters in a rather tentative way, a truce of suspicion.

Chapter 32 records the story of Jacob’s encounter with God, but it begins with Jacob’s unfinished business with his brother, Esau. Over twenty years have gone by since Jacob defrauded him and since Esau vowed murderous revenge. Jacob apparently wants to make things right; but when he sends emissaries ahead, he learns that Esau is coming to meet him with four hundred men.

Jacob organizes a diplomatic mission, but he is not at peace. That night he separates himself from every living person, only to find himself confronted by a Stranger.

Jacob and the Stranger wrestle through the night until at last Jacob wins by giving up. The Stranger gives Jacob a new name, Israel, the name that will ever after be that of his people.

Who was the Stranger? Centuries later Charles Wesley, putting himself in Jacob’s place, said, “ ’Tis Love! ’tis Love! Thou diedst for me.” We aren’t surprised that Jacob’s meeting the next day with Esau was successful. Having done business with God, he was ready to meet his brother.

PRAYER: Conquer my soul, O God, till I know your name is Love. Amen.

What connection do you see between Jacob’s apprehension at the coming meeting with his brother Esau and his experience with the Divine Stranger?