Genesis 32:1-35:27
We read about some of the key events in the early life of the tribe of
Israel. Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel today, finally mended his
relationship with Esau. He also moved back to Canaan and settled there. In the
meantime, his last son, Benjamin, was born; but, he lost his first love,
Rachel, in the process.
In the midst of these events, Jacob’s family had a run-in with the men
of Shechem, where his daughter Dinah was sexually abused. Once again, notice
the pattern of deception in Jacob’s family (from Day 10). Jacob was deceived by his sons,
who pretended to forgive Shechem for his sin, but who, instead, were plotting
their revenge. Unfortunately, deception is a common theme in Jacob’s life.
Though we read several smaller stories today, I think the big story is
how, after twenty years, God restored the relationship between the twins —
Jacob and Esau. Although much of the turmoil in that relationship was Jacob’s
fault, for defrauding his brother of his birthright, deceiving his father, and
stealing the first-born blessing, Jacob does the right thing to make up for his
mistakes. I was impressed most with his humility. He put away his pride and
self-reliance and put his hope in the Lord.
I believe that Jacob recognized that he was wrong and approached Esau,
not in a spirit of arrogance, but in a spirit of resignation and lowliness. He
was willing to do whatever it took, to give whatever it took, and to say
whatever it took to make things right. We would be wise to follow his example.
Daily Reflection
No matter how hard you try to avoid it, there are going to be times
when you make a mistake in a relationship. It could be with a spouse, a family member,
a friend, or a co-worker. It’s going to happen. The question is how are you
going to respond when it does happen?
What is the typical way that you handle these difficult situations?
Would you say that your way is godly or selfish? Explain.
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