Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Today’s Reading: Genesis 44:1-13

Then they tore their clothes, and each one loaded his donkey and returned to the city.

Genesis 44:13

Reflection: The reminder of sin can be used by God to bring about repentance and transform hearts. In testing his brothers, Joseph causes them to remember when they had sold Joseph into slavery over a decade before. This time, their youngest brother Benjamin must be left behind. The test is difficult for the brothers, but ultimately helps them recall their past sin from years ago and restore their relationship with Joseph. Moreover, it reveals the transformation of the brothers’ hearts since their last encounter with him.

Unlike their callousness toward Joseph when they sold him into slavery, Joseph’s brothers are concerned for their brother Benjamin and all accompany him to Egypt, even though Benjamin is the only one told to return to Egypt for the crime he didn’t commit. Later on, Judah, the brother who convinced the others to sell Joseph into slavery years ago, will be the brother who offers to take Benjamin’s punishment for himself and serve as a slave to Pharoah. All the while, this is a time for the brothers to lament that they sold Joseph into slavery.

The story of Joseph and his brothers is filled with betrayal, sorrow, and pain. But it ends in forgiveness and serves as a picture of restoration to our LORD. Such sweet and perfect communion with God begins only by first seeing how far we are from Him, that we might move nearer to His Presence.

Prayer: LORD, You are the Great Redeemer. Thank You for the reminder that all my sins that once burdened me have been washed away by the precious blood of Your Beloved Son. Thank You that You are continuing to do a good work in me and through me. I pray that You transform my heart, LORD, and continue to guide me in my walk with You. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Luke 24:13-53; Genesis 44; Psalm 35