“Jacob saw Esau coming… so he divided the children… Jacob went ahead of them and bowed down to the ground seven times as he approached his brother”, (Genesis 33: 1, 3)
Sometimes, when there have been dis-agreements or interpersonal conflicts, it is indispensable to try to make amends and to seek reconciliation. Whatever background, it is a sign of spiritual maturity if you take your courage in your hands, risk rejection and try to put things right.
Twenty years had passed since Jacob had double-crossed his twin brother Esau and Esau had vowed to eliminate him. Wisely Jacob had fled for his life. But his deceit had hounded him; affecting everything he did and said. When God had transformed his heart, Jacob prepares to meet Esau. He stepped out ahead of the extended family and servants who were with him and met Esau face to face. Jacob risked his life. He could have effortlessly been cut to pieces, his family slaughtered and all his possessions vehemently taken. But the secret is, he had met God, he knew that what he was doing was right, and had received blessings from God. It was a move that demanded great courage and faith. It could have ended in catastrophe but it didn’t because he didn’t go alone. The God who had conscripted him into his cause was with him and was using him to bring about growth of the nation through forgiveness.
Maybe you too need at some time to overcome your natural fear, put yourself in the hands of God and step out boldly for what you know to be God’s purpose – the purpose of reconciling with your husband or wife; colleague or friend; brother or sister; father or mother, son or daughter. It could mean to stoop low and say these three words “I AM SORRY”. I know it could involve some risky undertaking but if you know God wants you to do it, do it. Take your courage in your hands and go forward – with God.
Look what God does! “But Esau ran to meet him, threw his arms round him and kissed him. They were both crying”, verse 4. A happy ending always makes a good story, especially when there have been dramas along the way. Please!! Don’t let the disappointment over the “unfinished business” shape the rest of your life.
