During a recent group meditation practice session, we stepped into the heavenly realm through Jesus Christ (John 10:9). We were immediately greeted by what could be described as our “cloud of witnesses” (Heb.12:1).
Everyone was so happy to see us visit. Father and Jesus were in the midst as well, with huge smiles on their faces as they watched this mini reunion and temporary homecoming.
As I looked around I expected to see someone familiar. A family member, perhaps? Surely Daniel or David or even Deborah? No, I did see someone, but it wasn’t who I expected. I looked again, almost in disbelief (which is non existent in this realm!). It was Jacob. The story of Jacob — patriarch, wrestler, and man renamed by God — is one of Scripture’s most layered and surprising portraits of identity and grace (Genesis 25-32). But of all people, I had not expected him. I did not see him clearly but I discerned it was him without a doubt.
I engaged Jacob, without words, and asked him why I was seeing him. What followed was not what I expected. What he told me is a message for all of us — and perhaps for the Church in this hour.
Jacob said, “Many in the Church have been taught that I was a deceiver. But I was not so much a deceiver as a deceived one. In this way, every person is “a Jacob.” I was deceived about my identity. My belonging. My absolute security and unique role in God’s unfolding plan. Had I known my worth, my beloved status, I would have never strived and contended the way I did.
So I want everyone to know this: be authentic. You are fully known and fully loved and fully accepted just for who you are. You cannot hide behind another person’s identity so embrace yours and never doubt God’s great plans for you. Your calling fits within your identity, not the other way around.”
Pondering this encounter, I am reminded that Jacob’s limp was the mark of an encounter that cost him something — and changed everything (Genesis 32:24-28). Every genuine encounter with God leaves a mark. Not a wound, but a testimony. You are not defined by your striving. You are defined by whose you are. You belong to God. You are defined by their complete acceptance and love for you.
Your Turn to Talk.
We want to know what you have to say about this: Have you ever considered Jacob’s words – that he was not so much a deceiver as a deceived one? What difference does this make? How does it apply to all of us in some way? Your comments matter — share your thoughts in the comments below.
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