Worship into the Week- Wrestling with the Divine

 

 Worship into the Week- Genesis 32:22-30

An all-night wrestling match with a 

divine being is not part of a normal week.

This section of Scripture begins the story of change for Jacob. 

He is moving from a self-reliant man to dependence on God.

It was not a planned transition. 

This encounter comes after he sends all

 of his family and possessions away.

His new "limp" is a mark of his encounter with the divine.

He is physically and permanently changed now.

His new self is centered on the blessing

 that comes from his struggle and vulnerability.

Jacob's previous life was full of conflict and deception.

His wrestling match is a turning point in his struggle.

Now he has a new identity. He is also the patriarch of a nation

 that has "struggled with God and man."

This encounter with the divine being is a profound moment

  of intimacy and struggle between God and humanity.

Things will always be different for Jacob.

His physical disability looms large in his daily life.

But, the transformation is monumental. 

Ultimately, he receives a blessing through his defeat and injury.

What a tremendous story when true strength comes 

from dependence on God, and not on self-reliance.

Maybe we can see the power of this "letting go"

 in our own day to day struggles.

Time to call in the power reserves and rely on God.

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