Reconciliation

Reconciliation.  Jacob and Esau were brothers, but Esau was very angry with Jacob, so much that in a moment of anger he could have literally killed him.  However, Jacob parts ways and is gone for at least 20 years until God tells him to return home.  Returning home meant facing his brother Esau.  How would his brother respond?  Jacob returned as God had instructed, but had made provisions in case there was an attack.  Jacob also sent gifts ahead to his brother, showing humility and hoping to appease his brother.  Instead of being angry or attacking Jacob, Esau ran to meet him, hugged him, threw his arms around him, and kissed him (Genesis 33:4).  Now, listed to what that meant to Jacob and how he described that moment.  Jacob said, “I have seen your face, and it is like seeing God’s face, since you have accepted me” (Genesis 33:10).  As believers, we are brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus.  Our relationship with one another is valuable.  We should be so committed to unity that whatever it costs to keep our fellowship would be worth the price.  The moment of reconciliation with Jacob’s brother, Esau, was a joyous moment.  Hurt can run deep, but forgiveness and reconciliation must run deeper.