We all wrestle in life, but once upon a time, I wrestled for my school team. My team was good. We won the championship for American schools in Europe. My toughest opponent was Richard Sweezy, a sixteen-year-old eighth grader with a full goatee. He had only lost once all year, to my teammate Rocky. (I know it sounds like I am making this up.) Sweezy was famous for the dreaded homicide cradle. I avoided it as long as anyone did except Rocky, but alas, Richard pinned me. Thankfully it was not a homicide, and I advanced through the consolation bracket.
Jacob grappled for most of his life. Remember the man I mentioned in a sermon recently? His family buried him sideways in the cemetery because he had lived his whole life sideways with people. So Jacob found himself at odds with his brother Esau, his father Isaac, and his uncle Laban. Now, in obedience to God, he faced the consequences of his mistreatment of his brother. He decided to give his brother lavish gifts of livestock to appease his anger. Still, he feared for his own life and the lives of his wives and children.
When he sent his people and his possessions across the Jabbok, Jacob found himself alone. Only, he wasn’t. Someone wrestled with him all through the night. This was no metaphorical battle. Jacob would not let go of his opponent unless he blessed him. The opponent changed Jacob’s name to Israel, one who prevailed with people and God. Wounded by his opponent, Jacob walked with a limp ever after.
Sooner or later, we find ourselves alone with God. If we wrestle with God, we will find him formidable. After all these years, he is undefeated. The good news is God doesn’t want to harm us, but to heal us. So if you find yourself grappling with God, be sure to hold on to him. He will bless you. You will be changed. Once we get right with God, there is a chance we can get right with our families and others.
