Read: Genesis 45: 1-4, 12-15

Reflect:
There are times when I read the bible and I have to guess at the emotions that an individual might have in a certain situation. Then there are times when the emotions are so evident. Genesis 45 is one of those times. This scene comes after Joseph is sure of his brothers’ repentance. He knows this by Judah’s offer to take the place of Benjamin sacrificing himself as a slave rather than hurt the other son of Rachel (hmmm….substitutionary atonement…reminds me of someone else!). In addition Joseph can see a change of heart in Judah as he states he couldn’t bear to see his father’s pain in losing another son. It says that Joseph wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him. Oh the sobbing and wailing that Joseph must have exhibited, and I know from experience, that if you are sobbing that strongly it takes a while to calm down enough to speak. When he reveals his identity to his brothers, they are terrified. You can guess the thoughts going through their minds at this point, remembering what they did to Joseph – “this is it! We’re done for!” But Joseph offers love and forgiveness and is reconciled to his brothers. He embraces them and weeps over them. Joseph’s love for his brothers is evident. The forgiveness that has long been in his heart overflows, and pours over the repentant brothers. This gives us a beautiful picture of God’s love for us, overflowing in joyful forgiveness and reconciliation. When does it happen? It happens when we come to him in repentance. Why does it happen? Because of Jesus, who suffered as a substitute in the place of you and me, making it possible for men and women to be declared righteous, based on their faith in Him.

Pray:
Thank you Lord that I am a new creation in you. Praise God the old has passed away and the new has come. Thank you that through Christ I am reconciled to You. You have given us the ministry of reconciliation. Help me to do that. (from 2 Corinthians 5: 17-18)