At first glance, this seems to describe a family reunion between a couple of brothers who haven’t seen one another for a while. But once we know the background, we realise this was a very special reunion.

Jacob had deceitfully deprived Esau of his birthright. He had tricked his father, Isaac, into giving him the primary family blessing which really belonged to Esau. Having done that deed, Jacob went off to a distant land out of the reach of a possibly vengeful Esau. But now, Jacob is returning home, and doubtless wondering what awaits him.

Seeing Esau with his followers would have stirred up fears in Jacob. He both fears Esau and longs for reconciliation. Fear is swept aside as the deep longing for healing triumphs over thoughts of violent revenge. A painful journey has ended.

A reminder to us that broken relationships can be mended. God can still work what we might think are impossibilities. Our fear of that person we have wronged need not go on forever. Our thoughts of revenge can be laid aside as we seek new beginnings with the help of a God who specialises in such things.

Blessings,

David

Get daily encouragement delivered straight to your inbox

Writers from our Real Hope community offer valuable wisdom and insights based on their own experiences!

Subscribe + stay connected with all
our latest stories

Hope 103.2 is proudly supported by