This morning I had the pleasure of reading Genesis 32:22-32. Here we find the story of Jacob (whose name means "manipulator") as he wrestles with God until daybreak. I have, in the past, focused on Jacob's words: "I will not let you go until you bless me." Today, however,I was struck by two new insights:
1. I WANT EVIDENCE OF MY ENCOUNTER WITH THE LORD! Jacob walked away (or limped...perhaps) because his hip had become disjointed while wrestling with God. I understand that Jacob's name was changed to Israel. However, to have a limp is evidence of an encounter with God. Jacob would have to tell people his new name, but a limp people could see from a distance. What is it about my experience with God, or your experience with God, that speaks to the evidence of our encounter with God? Can people tell that we have encountered the Lord from the way we "walk."
2. GOD ALLOWED ME TO LIVE TO TELL! Here is Jacob, wrestling with God all night long. The truth is that God could have struck Jacob dead. Certainly, God could have won any fight....God is THE Heavy Weight Campion of the world. Yet, the Lord allowed Jacob to live so that he might tell about his encounter. God delivers us thought trials and tribulations. God gives us a testimony to His goodness, faithfulness and love every time we experience deliverance. If God has allowed us to live through something difficult, tragic or frighting...then I think he has allowed us to "Live to Tell." Tell people about what the Lord has done for you. How has God blessed you? How has God delivered you? How has God made ways out of no way? If the Lord lets us live...than we certainly have a testimony. Let us act like it.
Peace and blessings,
Rev. Courtney Clayon Jenkins
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