In today’s reading, Jacob prepares to meet his brother Esau for the first time in 20 years, and with the old feud still haunting him. After sending his family on ahead, Jacob has a supernatural encounter with God, wrestling with Him until daybreak, and receiving a new name with His blessing. Jacob, now Israel, meets Esau and reconciles with him, but family dysfunction continues to haunt him. His daughter disgraces herself, and his sons deceive and massacre the men of an entire city over a transgression much less severe than the punishment.  Following this, God commands Jacob to return to Bethel - the place where he first spoke with God - and renews His covenant with with him. Rachel dies in childbirth not long after, and Jacob returns to his father Isaac in Mamre. After Isaac dies, Esau and Jacob both lay him to rest.

Into/Outro music: "Unexpectedly" (c) 1995 Alex Grant Used by permission