Jacob sends presents to brother Esau in the hope of finding favor with him. The messengers return with frightening news: There is no thanks from Esau and Esau is coming to meet Jacob with 400 men! Jacob, frightened and stressed, develops a plan. He divides his people and flocks into two groups. If Esau should attack one group, the remaining group may well be saved. Next, Jacob prays to the God of Abraham and Isaac. He dares pray for protection from Esau even though he knows he does not deserve it.

Then methodically, Jacob sends presents in waves. Between each collection of goats, ewes, camels, colts, cows, and donkeys, the servants are to answer the question, "Who is sending these gifts?" with "They belong to your servant Jacob and they are a present send to my lord Esau, and moreover he …