Then Jacob asked him and said, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And he blessed him there. (Genesis 32:29 NAS95)
Why do you ask My name? God asks this question incessantly to each of us. In this context He asks it of Jacob for whom the past 21 years have proven the provision and presence of God with him. God fulfilled His promise to Jacob at Bethel and blessed him. Yet now Jacob finds deep distress dwelling in his bones and fear overtakes him at the news of his brother’s coming. Jacob’s fear arises, most probably, as he remembers his reason for departing his home of origin: fear for his life. He believes Esau now wants to exact payment for what he (Jacob) stole. The sense of God’s presence and blessing, even though abundantly evident, feels like a distant and dreamlike memory. Fear and anxiety have gripped him.
That evening Jacob entered another fight. Not a fight for his life, but a fight for his sight, his ability to perceive the heart and hand of God. “Please tell me Your name.…and He blessed him [Jacob] there.” God did not need to reply, He simply did what He had always been doing. He blessed him. Jacob now could see. When Esau arrives, Jacob says, “I see your face as one sees the face of God, and you have received me favorably.” He perceives God with him through the favor his brother Esau displayed. Jacob’s joy had no measure at that moment. He sees God’s heart and hand with Him. Why do you ask My name? Evidence abounds of My love. Praying opens us to seeing the heart and presence of God here and now. Jacob understands God’s name. Do I?
For Reflection:
“Come and see the works of God, Who is awesome in His deeds toward the sons of men.” (Psalms 66:5 NAS95)
- As you think over your walk with God what evidences has He given you of His presence and love?
- When was the last time you took note of God’s loving activity toward you or those you care about? What did you notice of His character?
