Christian poem 'Jacob's Struggle' by nancy wilkins (Christart.com)

Jacob's Struggle
by nancy wilkins

When darkness had fallen, in the shadow of night
He watched his family cross a river great -
He knew not how to win this fight
Or what might be his fate.

As he fell upon his knees and cried out to his God
To lift him up above his brother
He knew not how his help would come
As tears of anguish fell to the ground, His help came in the form of another.

A man from nowhere came to him
And tapped him on his shoulder
“My friend, I am here to show you truth,
Why should you win, you are not the older?”

Each man embraced the other’s arms,
Entwined they were by the shore.
One was pinned and then the other
But each one cried for more.

The struggle continued as the new man said,
“You cannot win this fight alone.
You try to scheme and hold me down,
Yet you fight against greater than what you have known.

All of your life you have searched for a way
Among men to take your place.
But you have wrestled with men so long
You have not seen my face.”

As he remained immovable
Undaunted by the taunts
Jacob’s strength remained in him
Until a touch caused the man this response,

You must let go for you have work to do,
Your journey has just begun.
You will not struggle anymore
Your heart has risen as the sun.

What is your name, you must tell me now.
For I am not just a man.
Look into my eyes, and see the depth
Of eternity if you can.

You will now be called Israel, for you have wrestled with God.
And your power will be great.
No more will you struggle with men – you have won.
Your new life now awaits.”

“Bless me,” Jacob said to him,
“And tell me who you are.”
No name was given, yet Jacob knew
He was looking at God no longer from afar.

When your own struggles come, as often they will
Remember Jacob and the battle he faced.
Before long find your strength as you humble yourself
In life as you take your place.