July 26, 2026: I Won’t Let Go!
Genesis 32: 22-31

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

Last week, we explored God ’s challenging call to Abraham in “You Want Me To Do What? ” as he faced the harrowing test on Mount Moriah with the binding of Isaac. That moment forced Abraham — and us — to confront the terrifying, confusing demands that sometimes accompany a life of faith.

This week, we turn to Genesis 32: 22–31 and Abraham ’s grandson, Jacob, whose story reminds us that wrestling with God isn't just an occasional test; it is at the very core of our identity. Under the cover of darkness at the Jabbok River, facing fear, isolation, and the consequences of past mistakes, Jacob engages in an all -night wrestling match with a mysterious divine opponent.

Instead of demanding passive submission or neat piety, God meets Jacob right in the middle of his brokenness, fear, and mess. God renames him Israel — “he wrestles with God” — embracing struggle as a defining mark of faith rather than a failure of it.

Together, these stories show us that whether God asks us to step into the unknown like Abraham or meets us in a dark midnight struggle like Jacob, faith is rarely simple or easy. Redemption and blessing do not require us to have everything figured out first; God works directly through our doubt, pain, and persistence to bring us through to the other side.

The way we worship is the way we live.

Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude.  Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people.  We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.