When Joseph came home… Genesis 43:26
When the great man arrived, there was no harsh speaking. Instead, Joseph asked them about their father (43:27), he pronounced words of blessing over Benjamin (43:29), and he brought the brothers into a lavish banquet (43:31-34).
There were three tables. Joseph sat at one table. The brothers sat at another table. And Joseph’s servants sat at a third table.
Reconciliation has not yet taken place. But a remarkable change that will lead to reconciliation has already begun. The conscience of the brothers has been awakened, and now they are experiencing love and kindness that they cannot really understand.
There’s much to learn here from Joseph about forgiveness and reconciliation. His kindness comes first, their repentance comes later. Barriers are being lowered, hearts are being changed.
God loved us while we were still sinners, and Joseph’s love and kindness reaches out to the brothers and leads them to repentance.
Think about the many ways in which you have experienced the kindness of God. Think about your health, your work, your gifts and talents. Think about the home you live in, the income you have been able to generate, and the lifestyle you are able to sustain.
Where did these gifts come from? Why are they yours? How are you going to respond to this kindness that God has lavished on your life, none of which is yours by right, and none of which any of us deserve? God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance (Rom. 2:4).
