Vayishlach and Motzaei Shabbat

There is a custom among many communities to recite Parashat Vayishlach on Motza'ei Shabbat. Wherein lies the connection between this parasha the end of Shabbat?

Some have suggested that this practice evolves from a Chassidic tradition that the beginning of this parasha - Yaakov's return to Canaan and dispatching of messengers to appease his brother - occurred on Motza'ei Shabbat. Needless to say, this claim itself requires explanation. What is the significance of Parashat Vayishlach's unfolding with the conclusion of Shabbat?

We may perhaps suggest that this notion symbolizes Yaakov's having drawn the strength to overcome Esav from "Shabbat." Yaakov had spent twenty years in exile, in the spiritual wasteland of Lavan's home. He spent his days and nights devotedly tending to his father-in-law's flock and raising his family. As Rashi notes in his comments to the second verse in our parasha, Yaakov maintained his adherence to Torah and mitzvot throughout this period. This is "Shabbat": the consistent devotion to sanctity in an otherwise mundane lifestyle. Shabbat means the elevation of the six workdays, the infusion of a spiritual quality into a week characterized by secular pursuits. The power of Shabbat allowed Yaakov to stubbornly uphold his values and priorities even when he was no longer a "dweller of tents," even in the threatening environs of Charan. He managed to find his "Shabbat" among the corruption and idolatry of Ur Kasdim. "Motza'ei Shabbat" thus symbolizes the aftermath of Shabbat, the effects of its formidable power. Yaakov overcame the threat of Esav specifically on Motza'ei Shabbat, through his ability to retain his devotion to his religion even under the most difficult circumstances. It is this power we bring to mind through the recitation of Parashat Vayishlach on Motza'ei Shabbat.