Scripture: Genesis 50: 15-17
But now that their father was dead, Joseph’s brothers were frightened. “Now Joseph will pay us back for all the evil we did to him,” they said. 16-17 So they sent him this message: “Before he died, your father instructed us to tell you to forgive us for the great evil we did to you. We servants of the God of your father beg you to forgive us.” When Joseph read the message, he broke down and cried.
Scripture Commentary:
How hard is it to forgive? In 1877, American abolitionist (and escaped slave) Frederick Douglass met his former master, Thomas Auld. Douglass had written a strong condemnation of Auld’s cruel treatment of his slaves. But when the two met near the end of Auld’s life, Douglass forgave his former master. They cried, were reconciled, and parted as friends, according to Douglass’ autobiography. Douglass had accepted God, and in doing so, God showed him how to forgive, let go of what was evil, and embrace the love God had given each of us.
With Joseph, God took his brothers’ evil deed and turned it for good. If Joseph was not where God had placed him, the outcome would have been different. Ask God for help when you are in places you don’t want to be. When someone wrongs you, forgive them and pray for them.
“Forgive them: for they know not what they do.”
In Luke 23:34 Jesus asks the Father, “Forgive them: for they know not what they do.” Joseph not only forgave his brothers but also reassured them, offering to care for them and their families.
Joseph demonstrates how God graciously accepts us.
Even when we have ignored or even rejected God, He graciously forgives us.
In this last chapter of Genesis, Joseph’s life is coming to an end. He had no doubt that God would keep His promise, and one day bring the Israelites back to their homeland. This was a lifetime of faith Joseph had in God.
What is your faith in God? Is it strong enough to take you to the end of your journey?
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