Genesis 35:7b, 10 There he built an altar, and he called the place El Bethel, because it was there that God revealed himself to him when he was fleeing from his brother…God said to him, “Your name is Jacob,, but you will no longer be called Jacob; your name will be Israel.” So he named him Israel.
The story of Jacob is intriguing. Some of his actions we read about in scripture, like the deceiving his brother Esau, cause us to pause and wonder why God chose him to be the one through which God’s people would be blessed. The one common motive that can be observed about Jacob was his desire for God’s blessing – not for selfish gain – but because he loved God so much. God seemed to love Jacob’s pursuit and continued to bless him. However, God did not change his name to solidify the promise to Abraham through him until Jacob had been reconciled to Esau. Could that be an early scriptural lesson in unity? What blessing does God want to pour out on you or your church, but He waits for reconciliation?
Father, I want your blessing for our church, our community, and me. Guide me and others you love toward the reconciliation You desire. Mend broken relationships and heal wounded hearts. Amen
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