Jacob: The One Who Wrestled with God

No fixed feast day in the calendar

Jacob overcomes difficulties to receive the blessing, renamed Israel.

From a Flawed Man to a Bearer of the Covenant

Jacob was the son of Isaac, who obtained the birthright and blessing from his father. After fleeing because of his brother Esau’s anger, he had a dream of a ladder reaching heaven at Bethel, where God confirmed the covenant with him. After many years working in the house of his uncle Laban, Jacob returned home. In the darkness of night, he wrestled with an angel of God. Through his perseverance, he was blessed and renamed Israel, meaning "one who struggles with God." Despite a life full of twists and turns, God still guided him to become the father of the twelve tribes.

Prayer

Perseverance and Inner Transformation

God writes straight with crooked lines. Jacob was full of flaws, yet his desire for blessing paved the way for grace.
A faith that does not give up. His wrestling with God reveals a strong faith that holds on even when tested.
Persevering prayer and conversion. Perseverance in prayer and interior conversion help us discover our true vocation.

Lord, help me to persevere in seeking You and be ready to let You transform me every day.

Prayer

Lord, transform me into Your own, even though I am full of weaknesses and faults.

The text on this page is the card in the Catholic Information app, word for word.