In the Christian Science Bible Lesson February 6, 2012 Issue

Prepare to be transformed

For the lesson titled "Soul" from February 6-12, 2012

By Christa Kreutz

This week’s Bible Lesson, titled “Soul,” offers a joyful message of spiritual transformation. The closeness of God is felt through the activity of Soul, leading the way toward a clearer understanding of our unbroken relationship with God.

The opening section of the Lesson contains one of the first stories of radical transformation in the Bible, the story of Jacob (see Genesis 32:24–30, citation 3). Jacob is about to meet his twin brother, Esau, who he thinks will want to kill him. Jacob wrestles all night with an angel and doesn’t let go until he receives a blessing. And with that he has a new name, or a new understanding of his identity: Israel, one who strives with God. As the New Revised Standard Version puts it, “for you have striven with God and with humans, and have prevailed” (verse 28). This short story of Jacob’s becoming Israel is a symbol for the story of the nation of Israel. In repeatedly facing adversity or new challenges, they had to wrestle with their understanding of God’s nature and their relationship with God, until their nature and identity were transformed.

The activity of Soul leads toward a clearer understanding of our unbroken relationship with God. 

About the author

Christa Kreutz holds a master's degree in theological studies. She lives in Elsah, Illinois, and is a visiting professor of religion at Principia College.

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