Reconciliation

Genesis 33: 1, 4

Jacob looked up and there was Esau, coming with his four hundred men! ...

But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw is arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept.

There was so much "bad blood" between these twin brothers. They had always fought, even in the womb before they were born! (Genesis 25:22.)

And Jacob had taken from Esau both the birthright and the blessing, that was supposed to go to the first-born, which was Esau. 

When Jacob left, Esau was wanting to kill him (Genesis 27:41). We're not told anything about what's been going on in Esau's life since he took another wife, from Ishmael's family instead of a Canaanite (Genesis 28:6-9). This shows that he wanted to do right, so this may have been the start of his returning to the Lord. 

Now it's 20 years later, and Jacob is very apprehensive, thinking that these 400 men are Esau's army to wipe him out (Genesis 33:1-3). Instead, he's forgiven him and welcomes him back!

This gives me hope, that while my loved ones are away from me, God may also be working in their hearts and lives, too. 

O my Father, You are a Wonder! Because You were working in Esau's heart, he was able to forgive his brother, and even welcome him with open arms! 

I pray for my loved ones. Please work in their hearts and minds this new year, please draw them to Yourself and show them Your ways. O Father, please work Your miracle of regeneration in each of them, and cause them to give You all the honor and glory and thanksgiving You deserve. 

And, Father, if You will, please draw us all together as a family in Love and unity. 

Even so, come, Lord Jesus!