The Face of TransformationSample

Day 4 - Devotional

Have you or someone you know ever said something like, “I’ve got to get things right between me and God”? That’s a great question to ask! What if that isn’t the endgame, but it’s actually the starting point? What if it’s the launching pad to the abundant life that Jesus promised His followers, and transformation becomes a reality for you, and those around you?

Could you imagine if Jacob’s journey stopped with the wrestling match? It would still be one worthy of retelling a few thousand years later. It would be a good story to tell, and then we’d move on to the next one. But it wouldn’t help us know what real transformation looks like.

It's not about perfection. Wholeness in Christ not only leads us towards a growing relationship with God, but a vibrant love and care for those closest to us, and the world outside our window. In our story, the next day, Jacob continues his journey of transformation by making things right with Esau, and discovers acceptance as his brother welcomes and embraces him.

Consider the parallels of this story to the story of the prodigal son that Jesus shares with his followers in Luke 15. Then, consider your own adventure in this life. Is there a relationship that you feel is too far gone to be reconciled? It’s possible to see, and be, the face of God in others!

Questions to ponder:

Is there someone you need to ask for forgiveness? Look for the face of God in them.

Is there someone you need to forgive? Go be the face of God to them.