October 10

Hosea 12
The cares of this life beckon to us aggressively, constantly and totally. Jacob began his pursuit to grasp after the cares of this life even in the womb. As Esau was exiting the womb first, he grasped his heel not wanting to be left behind. That single birth act not only influenced the giving of his name, but it also summarized the thrust of his life. He was constantly striving to better his situation. He was constantly struggling to get what others had, it was birthright, blessing, wife, children, cattle etc. He constantly strove for what was not his, constantly struggling for just a little bit more. What an image of most of us!
At Peniel Jacob wrestled with God. Through the tears of a dislocated hip, he finally found submission to the Lord. At Bethel Jacob met the God who was, who is and who is to come. He learned the meaning of His memorial name. He learned that all of his striving for the things which he had gained was empty. The real treasure was the relationship which he had with the LORD. Ephraim, the name given to the northern kingdom had followed down the same path as Jacob with one exception; they never really found the one who was, who is and who is to come. They replaced Him with idols as they continued to strive for just a little bit more.
Lord, You are the One who shines through eternity. Let me seek Your face now and be satisfied only with You from now and into eternity! Indeed, we serve a glorious King! Speak His glory to someone today!
--Pastor john