Can’t We All Just Get Along?
Genesis 32 and 33 remind me of all those times I anticipate something with so much nervousness – that feeling leads me to make contingency plans for situations that I imagine going poorly. Jacob is scared Esau will react negatively, violently. But when he meets him, Esau is ready to reconcile. In today’s world, and especially in the U.S., we often associate these kinds of feelings with big gatherings, such as holidays. This is partly thanks to movies, books, and even moving stories from friends about similar situations. In this biblical story, there is a reason to rejoice with the brothers who restore a relationship.
The holidays, or anytime, are an appropriate time to think about our relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and other people with whom we are connected – and especially to consider our relationship with G!d. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings we have enjoyed, and to appreciate their presence in our lives. The source of these gifts is G!d – who has made us able to enjoy relationships that are meaningful with each other and himself. How will you thank G!d during this holiday weekend (and ongoing)?
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"Please, take my blessing that is brought to you, because God has dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough.” – Bereishit (Genesis) 32:11 – This captures what Thanksgiving Day should be.
The start: Two young self-serving men. {Esau enjoyed hunting; Jacob was looking out for #1}
Out the Gate: Self serving interests split the family. Jacob was forced to leave.
Home away from home: Jacob met his selfish match in Laban.. After 21+ years he was fed up
"You can't go home again," Jacob knew this, but he was headed that way anyway … in hopes of better.
Then came word of his brother. Jacob struggled with God. And realized something great!
He was blessed beyond measure… and none of it from the family inheritance. It was from God.
Jacob shared this with Esau … who had been blessed beyond measure also. Amends were made.
Both Jacob and Esau realized their blessings… and you said it well, Chelsea, the family more together than it had ever been (unless you call the manner of the twin's birth "together!")