July 17 2023

Now a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. He said to his people, ‘Look, the Israelite people are more numerous and more powerful than we. Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, or they will increase and, in the event of war, join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land.’

From Exodus 1:8-14,22, NRSV

Because of Joseph’s influence, Israel’s family had been well treated in Egypt. After Joseph’s death, a new Pharaoh became concerned that the people of Israel were becoming too strong and numerous and thus a possible threat. This marked the beginning of the oppression of the people of Israel in Egypt. The “shrewd dealings” mentioned in today’s reading involved subjecting the people to hard labour and genocide through the killing of all male children. Such was the power of their oppressors that it would be several generations before the remnant of the people of Israel would be led out of captivity.

• • Why do you think it took so long for the people of Israel to escape from captivity?
  • Who are the oppressed people of our world today and what can we do to support them?

As you watch or read today’s news, become aware of situations that need your prayer and support – especially those stories that don’t capture the headlines.