New Name

"And He said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob (lit., he held the heel; supplanter), but Israel (prince with God): for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.... And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel (Turn Thou, God).... And Jacob came to Shalem (at peace).... and he erected there an altar, and called it Elelohe-Israel (God, the God of Israel)" (Genesis 32:28-30, 33:18-20). "I will make a new covenant.... and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people.... and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more" (Hebrews 8:8-12).

When Israel's identity
Was found in his new name,
The Lord had turned then graciously
To take away his shame.

For he who held his brother's heel
Could also hold God's heart
Who turned to him and would reveal
The blessings He'd impart.

There was a blessing far above
All others Jacob found:
The peace extended by God's love
Where grace and truth abound.

And in the place he came to dwell
He named his altar there
As "God, the God of Israel",
To celebrate His care.

Lord, thank that you likewise changed
Our horrible condition
Who once had been from You estranged
And destined for perdition.

And thus, O Lord, we celebrate
Our newfound reputation,
Since You were pleased to elevate
Our souls with Your salvation!