Genesis 42:1 - 43:38
I am sad to read this ending. Poor Jacob, to remember the loss of his son Joseph, and now to think he has lost his son Simeon, and believe that either he gives up his son Benjamin or his household and his sons' households will all starve to death. How his heart is grieved. For a parent the loss of a child is worse than their own death.
But in reading this I am also hopeful, for these outcomes have not yet happened. Joseph remembers his dream, and is an unknown audience to his brother's remorse. These 10 brothers lament their own wickedness, and recognize that there is a reckoning for their transgressions. This is a very good thing for them. They are on their way to being right with God. Perhaps there is hope for them and for this family that seemed so dysfunctional.
Clearly this is not the end of this story. Reuben has pledged to his father that he will give surety for Benjamin's safety. Joseph is too bereaved to agree to this, but it may be that tomorrow we read of a change of heart.
Would that today, I remember the promises of God, and that I respond out of the knowledge and love of God rather than out of any hurt I might carry.
See you tomorrow.
-maggie
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