Genesis 32:22-31 This story of Jacob wrestling resonates with divine power and mystery. It’s an eerie scene—Jacob is at a turning point in his life, not sure how things will work out, and he’s alone on a riverbank at night. An unidentified figure shows up, and the two of them wrestle until dawn. Jacob holds…

Genesis 32:22-31 In the preceding verses (Genesis 32:1-21) we read of Jacob’s fear of his brother, Esau. This fear was well founded. When they were boys, Esau was hungry and asked Jacob to share his food. Jacob agreed, but only on the condition that Esau sell him his birthright (Genesis 25:29-34). The birthright issue emerged…

Genesis 32:22-31 Forgiveness. “He took them and sent them across the stream, and likewise everything that he had. Jacob was left alone…” Despite readings, prayer, and support from others, when we have been wronged, the path to forgiveness often feels like an isolated journey. It is a stripping down to the essence of who we…