Scripture:
Genesis 37:3-4,12-13a,17b-28a
Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46
Reflection:
We want to think we are usually in control of our lives, and when we are not, we believe we can regain control. The truth is that control is frequently an illusion.
In today’s first reading, Joseph’s life was suddenly spinning out of control. His jealous brothers debated whether to kill him but instead sold him into slavery. As his story develops beyond this reading, he achieves a leadership role in Potiphar’s household as a slave in Egypt, only to be imprisoned after being falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife. While a prisoner, Joseph again rose to a position of authority and was summoned to interpret one of Pharoah’s difficult dreams. Joseph warned of an impending famine, was named second in power to the Pharoah, and prepared Egypt to survive this life-threatening crisis. Joseph’s family in Canaan, also suffering from the famine, traveled to Egypt in search of food. Joseph reunited with his father and brothers, provided them with food and a homestead and saved Jacob and the Israelites from famine; an outcome never even imagined when his brothers sold him into slavery. (See Genesis chapters 37 and 39-47 for the full story of Joseph and his family.)
Joseph never lost faith in God despite his life twice spiraling out of control. Through it all, God had a plan for Joseph and ultimately the Israelites, though that plan was far from obvious during times of betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment.
Whatever our personal or community hardships, we may be tempted to blame God for our suffering and loss or think that He has forgotten us. Even Jesus during His crucifixion cried out “My God, my God why have you abandoned me?”. These difficult moments call for humility and faith. Humility teaches us that we are not the center of the universe, and that God knows more about our situation than we are capable of perceiving on our own. Faith assures us that God is an all-loving God who never abandons us whatever happens in our life. Can we question God? Absolutely. Can we trust that God has a plan for us? Always!
Mike Owens is coordinator of the Passionist Alumni Association and a member of the Migration Commission of Holy Cross Province. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky.