It might seem striking to see Jacob, a hero of faith, whose life was entirely built on God’s promises, brought to his knees by overwhelming tragedy.

When he receives the catastrophic news that his son Simeon is detained and his youngest, Benjamin, is now at risk, Jacob cries out the ultimate lament: “Everything is against me.” (Genesis 42:36b). This ancient claim is the same one we feel today, isn’t it? It is what I felt as a persecuted Christian living in the Middle East. Whether we encounter persecution, adversity, or deep personal difficulties, we look at the chaos and ask the essential question: Where is God in the midst of this turbulent situation?

This Sunday, we’re confronting our own doubts about God’s presence. You are so welcome to come to the ICF Delft service as we look closely at this critical moment in Genesis 42:29-36. We will examine the moment a hero of faith reached the climax of his despair.