Through the Bible in 2012

Readings:

Genesis 31
Genesis 32
Genesis 33

Comments:

I like how Rev. Ellsworth Kalas* puts it – Jacob has unfinished business to attend to. First, he has unfinished business with his father-in-law. We see that played out in chapter 31.

Second, he has unfinished business with his brother, Esau, whom he hasn’t seen in years. We see that played out in chapter 32. But before it’s resolved, Jacob is confronted by a stranger (or a Stranger). They wrestle throughout the night. The stranger gives Jacob a new name. The new name is “Israel” and means “one who struggles with God.” The relationship of Jacob/Israel and God is a picture of the relationship of the emerging nation of Israel and God. We will see that begin in the second book of the Bible, Exodus.

After his struggle with the stranger, Jacob and Esau are able to resolve their differences and make peace with their past.

Are you struggling with God at the moment? What issues need to be resolved in your life? What does God have to say about it?

*Kalas, Ellsworth. The Grand Sweep. page 15