Jacob and Esau reconciled. Read Genesis 33:1-4. Reconciliation is hard work and never guaranteed, even when we take all the right steps. Jacob had deceived his father in order to receive the blessing of the firstborn. Esau was the firstborn born and when he learned what Jacob had done, he vowed to kill him. Jacob ran away to avoid Esau’s wrath. Twenty years later, with a large family and much wealth, Jacob returned home and prepared to meet the brother he had deceived. Jacob first prayed for God’s protection. Second, he sent a gift ahead of him for Esau. With the gift was also an act of humility because the message with the gift was from “your servant Jacob.” He hoped that Esau would receive him in peace, but there was no guarantee. So the last thing he did was to divide his family and assets so that one group might escape Esau’s wrath if he was bent on killing him and his family. The next day, he saw Esau approach with 400 fighting men. What an anxious moment that must have been for Jacob! Jacob approached Esau, bowing before him seven times. Esau reached his brother Jacob, embraced him, and kissed him. God had changed Esau’s heart as well. Reconciliation requires both parties to agree to forgive and accept each other. We only have control over what we do and must allow God space to work in the hearts of others. Jacob and Esau were able to live in peace. Together they eventually came together to bury their father.

Holy God, soften the hearts of those who are holding grudges toward siblings and former friends. Help us to do the hard work of humility and forgiveness, in order to repair the damage that has been done. If reconciliation is possible, bring us together. Amen.