Heaping grace

Genesis 45:1-3 “Then Joseph could no longer control himself…and he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him…”*

Years spill

A dream fulfilled

Rachel’s first-born is found

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God’s plan

Superseded man’s

And heaping grace abounds.

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Jesus took

From deserved hook

For humanity his life laid down.

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poem and photo by Patty Perkins

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The story of Joseph undoes me. When he revealed his identity to his brothers the years of pent up emotions poured so loudly the Egyptians could hear him cry. To be known to family after years of blending into another culture was more than he could stand.

These were the brothers who, though wanting to kill him, had instead sold him to a passing caravan years before. And yet, where is Joseph’s bitterness? The anger?

Joseph was focused on God’s plan. He harbored no ill-intent toward those who had sold him off—he knew it was God’s way to save the nation, Israel. He let them off the hook. Completely. Reminds me of a New Testament Savior who came to fulfill his father’s plan to save his people. He extends forgiveness to all who will accept.

Genesis 45:8 “So then, it was not you who sent me here but God…”*

*The One Year Bible, January 22, NIV, copyright 1986, Tyndale House Publishers, Wheaton, Illinois.

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