TFPC EM NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER 19, 2018

Giving Unexpectedly

Today is December 19, 2018

Welcome to your mid-week!

Before their meeting in Genesis 33, Jacob expected that his brother Esau wanted to kill him. 

20 years prior, Jacob had stolen the blessing of their family from Esau and had fled north to escape his wrath. Jacob's mother had told him that she would send word for him once Esau's wrath subsided but she never sent word.

By all accounts Esau was still angry and still wanted to kill him. And yet, in Genesis 31, God tells Jacob to go back.

With the uncertainty of his brother's position and this direct command of God, Jacob panics. He first strategizes what he would do if his brother attacks. Then he prays to God. Then he sends extravagant gifts. Then he wrestles with God. The next day, as he approaches Esau, he bows to the ground...seven times.

By all accounts, Jacob expected the worst from his brother. What Esau gave was his best.

Genesis 33:4 tells us that "Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept."

Esau had already forgiven his brother.

Now, the bible does not tell us why Esau forgave his brother. All we know, based on what Jacob does, is that Jacob did not expect it. Jacob did not expect to be given mercy and forgiveness but that is exactly what Esau gave. And that is our challenge.

God's blessing as you wrestle with this challenge and I look forward to seeing you all this Sunday.

- Frank Kim

Recording of the last Sunday's message: HERE
Powerpoint Show of the last Sunday's message: HERE
Recording of last Sunday's praise: HERE

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Upcoming Events

• Dec 21 (Fri) - TFPC Christmas Pageant. 7:30pm in the main Sanctuary. Participants, please come at 6pm.
• Dec 28-30 (Fri-Sun) - Youth Retreat
• Dec 31 (Mon) – KM New Year’s Eve Service. 10:30pm
• Jan 7-12 (Mon-Sat) – New Year’s Early Morning Prayer. 6am
• Jan 10 (Thurs) - YMF Cell Group
• Jan 12 (Sat) – New Year Family Prayer Service. 6am
• Jan 16 (Wed) - All Generations Apologetics Study

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Romans 5:8 - "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."