Holy Struggle: Part 2 // Pastor Bernie Lieving // July 19, 2026

The vision of a gateway to Heaven at Penuel is an important moment in Jacob’s life, and it invites us to think about the “thin spaces” in our lives where we feel close to God. His statement, “Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it,” can also invite us to be attentive to the serendipitous experiences of God that we might miss if we are not open to them.   Reflection Questions:1. Can you remember a time or place when you felt especially close to God? What made that experience meaningful?2. How does Jacob’s story remind you that God’s grace is present even in seasons of fear, failure, or uncertainty?3. Where might God be inviting you to recognize a “thin space” in your everyday life this week?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps