[018] Jacob is forgiven by Esau - Activity Worksheets

Jacob is on his way to Canaan where he knows he will meet Esau. He is unsure of Esau’s feelings about the past. Jacob remembers God’s promise and moves forward. He recognizes that he has done wrong and wants to make things right with his brother.
After so many years apart, Jacob and Esau are finally reunited. Jacob presents his brother with many gifts, which Esau at first tries to refuse, but Jacob insists. Esau then tries to return the favor by offering to accompany Jacob and his family, or at least to have his men guard them on their journey. But Jacob is satisfied to have made peace and sends Esau on his way. Then Jacob proceeds at aslow pace to his new home.
Jacob exercised three principles of effective service. First,he recognized the full extent of God’s blessing to him (Genesis32:10). Giving to Esau would not diminish his own abundance, for God had been so generous to him (Genesis 33:8-11). Second, Jacob treated Esau with much respect. There was no demand for equal treatment, no insistence that he receive something in return (Genesis 33:12-15). And finally, Jacob had learned to move at the speed of those for whom he was responsible. He kept to a pace that was considerate of the youngest and most tender (Genesis 33:13, 14). We want to do the same as we serve others.
When Jacob returned home after many years away, he was afraid of the reception he might receive from his brother because of the way he had deceived and cheated him. Yet when they met again, Esau threw his arms around Jacob and kissed him. Esau’s actions spoke of his complete forgiveness. One who deserved no forgiveness at all was completely and freely forgiven by the one who had every right to condemn him.

* Total of 10pages.