Genesis 33: Reunion
Thursday, November 7, 2019
Today we reflect on Jacob’s reunion with the brother he had deceived. We can learn much about ourselves in this meeting of two who once loved and have been in hiatus.
As I read through these verses today I am so struck by how this relationship has changed during the brothers’ time apart. The attitude of deception that characterized Jacob in Chapter 27 is gone and in fact Jacob begs Esau to accept his presence and his gifts in verse 10. And look at what he says. “No, I beg you!” said Jacob. “If you will do me the favor, please accept this gift from me, since to come into your presence is for me like coming into the presence of God, now that you have received me so kindly”.
Jacob – in receiving mercy from his brother rather than a wrath that would be justified – realizes and then admits aloud that he and Esau have a holy union. They are meant to love one another and not deceive one another. During their time apart, Jacob has come to understand that not only had he tried to deceive Esau when he sought to cheat him of his birthright . . . he had sought to deceive God himself. He had sought to manipulate God’s plan.
Esau wants to accompany his brother home. Jacob does not want to tax his family or his herds. Esau offers guards to ensure the safety of his brother’s tribe. Jacob declines. The two bothers come to an agreement and eventually reunite.
Last year when we reflected on Jacob and the lessons he learned about being willing and faithful, this was the prayer that came to us that day. I offer it again below. May all of our waiting dreams and broken hearts find such sweet reunion as these two brothers with whom we reflect today.
Sweet and loving God, may I be ever-listening, ever-faithful, ever-willing to obey your plan. I understand that you have something wonderful in mind for me and that from where I stand I cannot see as well as you and so sometimes I am a bit afraid of what will pop up next over my horizon. May I refrain from manipulation and from being manipulated. May I refrain from separating myself from you, may I return to you always when I am afraid, because I know that you are always with me. Amen.
Image from: http://www.pubhist.com/work/10288/hendrick-ter-brugghen/esau-selling-his-birthright
Written on October 17, 2008, re-written and posted today as a Favorite.
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