12 July 2023

Moreover, all the world came to Joseph in Egypt to buy grain, because the famine became severe throughout the world. Thus the sons of Israel were among the other people who came to buy grain, for the famine had reached the land of Canaan.

From Genesis 41:55-57,42:5-7,17-24, NRSV

The Lectionary jumps much of the story of Israel (Jacob) and brings us to the time when his son Joseph has risen to power in Egypt. His brothers, along with many other famine stricken people, were forced to travel into Egypt in search of food. Joseph recognised his brothers but they did not know him. They had last seen Joseph when they had sold him into slavery so they would not have expected that he would be the one responsible for deciding whether or not to give them what they needed to live. Although Joseph eventually showed mercy and helped his brothers, his initial reaction was to show no mercy. He spoke harshly to them and had them imprisoned for three days. Joseph’s actions may have been a result of his human desire for revenge but God was able to use the consequences of his actions to bring his brothers on a path to repentance. Whilst they were imprisoned, his brothers recalled and began to regret the way they had treated Joseph.

• • Was Joseph justified in the way he treated his brothers ?
  • How have you been able to cope with being mistreated by others?

Pray for all who are treated unkindly and unjustly by others – and for those who misuse their power in this way.