Genesis 32:1-21
Good relationships require communication. When communication stops, relationships crumble. Jacob wants to mend his relationship with his brother Esau. He starts the process by sending messengers.

In the messages he refers to himself as “your servant Jacob.” This is a courteous as well as humble way of referring to himself. He wants his brother to know that he is not coming to meet him full of pride. He is not coming to meet him seeking confrontation. He then tells his brother that he has been staying with their uncle Laban, and has been there for 20 years. This is a way of letting his brother know that he has not been hiding or running away. He then tells his brother that he is rich in flocks and servants. He wants his brother to know that he is not coming home needy. He is not coming home seeking to enrich himself by taking what belongs to Esau. He tells his brother that he is sending these messages to seek favor in his brother’s eyes.

The messengers return with enough information to frighten, but not enough communication to enlighten. Jacob knows Esau is coming to meet him. He knows Esau is traveling with 400 men. He does not know if Esau is angry. He does not know why Esau is coming. Esau has not communicated his intent. Because of the lack of communication from Esau, Jacob is afraid for himself and his family.

Jacob at last communicates with the one he should have started with. Jacob communicates with God. He tells God, I’ve heard your command and I’m obeying. He tells God, I know I’m unworthy. He tells God I know you have been kind and faithful. I had nothing, and you have given me everything. He tells God I trust you to keep me and my family safe. We call it prayer, but by any name it is communication. Jacob has poured out his heart to God.

Broken relationships are not easy to mend. We need God’s help. Don’t wait until after you have messed it up to pray. Always start with prayer. Prayer allows God to supervise the repair.