When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong which we did to him!” So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, “Your father charged before he died, saying, ‘Thus you shall say to Joseph, “Please forgive, I beg you, the transgression of your brothers and their sin, for they did you wrong.”’ And now, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Then his brothers also came and fell down before him and said, “Behold, we are your servants.” But Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in God’s place? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. So therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones.” So he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. Genesis 50:15-21 NASB
I came to follow Jesus partly out of curiosity, somewhat for future salvation, but mostly to reconcile my sin and discover my purpose in life. I think some people are looking for a ‘fire insurance’ policy. They wonder, how little can I pay to avoid that place the Bible calls “hell”. I get that. It’s simple, shallow, and misses almost all of what God really desires for us… which is a love relationship between creator and creature. Joseph’s brothers were fearing punishment so they came to him- admitting their sin, asking for forgiveness, and promising to serve God. In a Christlike manner, Joseph receives them, illustrates how God was redeeming their lives right from the beginning of their transgression, and kindly comforts them. That’s what God did for me.
In what ways has God carried out His redemptive work in my life, right from the start? How has my relationship grown from a purchase of ‘fire insurance’ to a love relationship with my creator?
God, as this day begins- thank you for answered prayers. I see You at work in Your people and upon the minds of judges. I see You quelling the effects of the Covid19 disease. Continue, please to protect and heal as You eradicate the disease. How amazing would it be if you ‘killed’ it without even the use of drugs. (Sad for drug researchers) Please use Maureen and I as we share our story and values with other pastors today. May we be a blessing and encouragement in their marriages.
