Dear Friends,
Today in Genesis 42:1-38, Joseph’s brothers (except Benjamin, who is home with his father) bow down to Joseph in fulfilment of his dream (Genesis 37). Joseph questions his brothers to find out what has happened to his father and Benjamin. He then tests them (verse 16) and has them thrown in prison.
The experience of this “retribution” causes the brother to reflect and think about what they did to Joseph, remembering how they ill-treated him (verse 21). Joseph is wanting to ascertain if his brothers have changed over the years. He is not seeking revenge because later we see that Joseph reconciles with his brothers and restores them.
At times in our lives, God will discipline us and allow us to go through difficulties so that He may awaken our consciences and bring us to repentance! God’s great gift to us is to not leave us in our sin but to give us the opportunity to repent and turn back to Him. This is a precious gift. Forgiveness and reconciliation confronts us with our sinfulness and provides the opportunity for a fresh start.
God’s Blessing, David O’Mara
From the AM Pastor’s Bulletin, 14 November 2021
All Souls Anglican Church Leichhardt 