The Art Of Reconciliation

Jacob’s reconciliation with his brother Esau is quite the interesting story. He’s been instructed to go back to the land of his father Isaac knowing that his brother Esau would be there, yet not knowing whether or not he would be received. Humility, a modest view of one’s own importance, always seems to be an overflowing trait we find in people we admire the most. Most often it is acquired through struggle. Any experience that makes us feel used or abused can elicit two responses. The first response is revenge, destroying the spirit within that seeks the good and lives at the expense of others. The second response is outreach, encouraging the spirit within that seeks the good and lives to build up and encourage others. In the larger scheme of things any physical wealth God allows us to amass can never really compare to the deeds we choose in life. If we as Christians know what is right and yet choose what is wrong, then we too participate in life’s masquerade. Christ in all his glory, came to us through works not status, to build the spirit and not destroy it, to give life and conquer death. His works always went before him and always to the glory of God. Thus, the art of reconciliation with God strips us down to the heart of Christ’s spirit within us and eventually brings every believer to the same place of outreach to praise, love, and new life.

‘Thus you shall say to my lord Esau: Thus says your servant Jacob… Genesis 32:3-21

The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me; but you do not believe, because you do not belong to my sheep. My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. John 10:19-30

But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and all of you have knowledge…abide in him, so that when he is revealed we may have confidence and not be put to shame before him at his coming. 1 John 2:18-29