Learning from OT Greats: Joseph - From the Pit to the PalaceSample

Day 9:  Joseph reveals himself to his brothers 

Thoughts on the Passage

Imagine their shock as Joseph revealed himself to them. 

 I can imagine the thoughts racing through their heads as they hear the words from Joseph. All the lies exposed; all the danger they faced; all the purposes of Joseph’s actions revealed – all in a moment of time. How could they believe it? 

Well, I think that Joseph sent the Egyptians out and had the brothers come close for one reason – to prove he was Joseph, he had to show that he had the sign of the covenant – circumcision. There was no one else that would do that in Egypt. There was no one else that understood the sign of the covenant.

Also, Joseph has thought through the things that needed to happen. They need to come to Egypt. They need to settle in the land of Goshen. They need to come because the famine will strip them of all their resources during the next five years. 

 Joseph hugs Benjamin. Joseph also wants to see his father. Bring him here.

Finally, they just talk. The years, the common memories, the family stories that everyone knows, or just catching up on the family news for the last 20 plus years. Who knows exactly what was said, but anyone who has been away from family or dear friends for a long time understands what is happening. They just talk and re-establish the bonds that connect them.

Reconciliation has happened.

Application to our Life

Times of reconciliation are times of restoration – not times to establish who was right and who was wrong. In the end both sides were wrong. It needs to be a time of frank discussion, but it is also a time of just building relationships that were destroyed. One side (the one most hurt) always pays the highest price for reconciliation – but in the end it is worth every bit of effort it takes.

Time to Pray
Father, I am amazed at Joseph. This man paid an enormous price to save his family. Joseph did it – but in reality, You did it. You prepared Joseph for this moment. You prepared him to save his family. You prepared him to open the door for family destiny. You prepared him for the moment his brothers showed up. And you are preparing me? 

Am I ready to see heaven opened like this? Am I ready to have You use me to change the destiny of someone? Father, as I look at this moment I wonder if I have the grace and mercy that Joseph had? I am not sure. I want it though. So prepare my heart today I pray. In Jesus name, Amen.