I have enough

“...Esau said 'I have enough' ... Jacob said, 'I have enough...'” Genesis 33v9,11

In this chapter we have a reunion of two long lost brothers after a 21 year separation. They had departed with less than brotherly love and Jacob was petrified to meet the brother he had wronged so horribly. All Jacob could see what retribution, which he knew he deserved.

How surprised Jacob must have been when his brother ran to him, embraced him, fell on his neck, kissed him, and they wept.” Family introductions were made and a truly wonderful family reunion ensued.

Obviously, it was the work of God in these men's heart that made this all possible. Yet there is something else which is key here. How could all of the differences of the past be so easily forgotten? Both men speak three very rare words to each other. “I have enough” they both say while involved in something of a giving contest.

Why are these words so rare? They whole relationship with God and each other is based on the concept of contentment. I Hebrews lack of contentment is equated with idolatry. Discontentment always puts something else ahead of God. Contentment is able to say “I have enough” no matter what the situation. Discontentment never says, “I have enough.”

Their division was resolved when both men accepted that they had enough. May we strive to resolve our differences with the same spirit.