Genesis 50:15-21 (NRSV)
Read Genesis 50:15-21 on biblegateway.com
Verse 15Realizing that their father was dead, Joseph's brothers said, "What if Joseph still bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong that we did to him?" Verse 16So they approached Joseph, saying, "Your father gave this instruction before he died, Verse 17'Say to Joseph: I beg you, forgive the crime of your brothers and the wrong they did in harming you.' Now therefore please forgive the crime of the servants of the God of your father." Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Verse 18Then his brothers also wept, fell down before him, and said, "We are here as your slaves." Verse 19But Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid! Am I in the place of God? Verse 20Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today. Verse 21So have no fear; I myself will provide for you and your little ones." In this way he reassured them, speaking kindly to them.
Devotion
Joseph's brothers, driven by fear, decided to approach Joseph to ask his forgiveness. Their father, Jacob, was now dead and no longer able to protect them from the anger and resentment they feared was a part of their relationship with the powerful Joseph. If Joseph is a product of the ruthless, real world he may pay them back for their evil ways of the past. Joseph surprises them with the words, "Do not be afraid!" These are the same words Jesus speaks to terrified disciples. They are the same words angelic messengers speak to quaking people caught in the presence of the Holy. "Do not be afraid." Joseph is aware that God has a bigger vision for the world and the future of his people. God's love trumps anger and resentment. Do not be afraid, for I will care for you.
Prayer
Life-giving Lord, speak your words of peace and forgiveness into the center of our lives, and then send us into the world to walk in the confidence of your presence and love. Amen