Genesis 50: 15 -21
Joseph’s brothers are afraid. Their father is now dead, who will protect them if Joseph is holding a grudge. They still experience guilt from selling Joseph into slavery. Joseph has told them that he has forgiven them. They live in a sinful world, where deceit and vengeance was common practice. Joseph is powerful and nothing can stop him if he wants vengeance. They see Joseph’s love for Jacob as their only hope. They send Joseph a message saying that Jacob left instructions that he is to forgive them.

When he received the message, Joseph weeps. It hurts to know that his brothers, and possibly his father do not know that he is a man of integrity. They do not know that his forgiveness is genuine, or that his love for them is real. It hurts to realize his brothers are afraid of him. His heart is breaking.

His brothers throw themselves down before Joseph and offer to be his slaves. Once again, Joseph tells them not to be afraid. He points them to God. If they know God, they will better understand Joseph. Joseph is forgiving because he serves a forgiving God. Joseph is merciful because he serves a merciful God. Joseph understands that God is the ultimate judge. He does not attempt to put himself in God’s place. Joseph reassures them. He is kind to them and provides for them and their children. Joseph’s love reveals the nature of God’s love. His forgiveness, mercy and grace illuminate the nature of God.

It can be heartbreaking when others misjudge us. It hurts when someone we love questions our motives. In our pain we have to be careful, our response must be righteous. It must be full of mercy and grace. When someone hurts us, our response should reveal the nature of God’s love. God’s love in us may be the first evidence of God that they have ever seen.