Scripture:
Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a
Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46
Reflection:
Joseph and his long tunic. One of the many classic scripture stories heard in childhood and revisited throughout our lifetimes.
I am always brought to my knees by Josephs ability to forgive and follow Gods will.
His brothers betray him in ways none of us should ever know. He is sold. He is sold out of jealousy. Years later, when faced with his brothers in need, he is able to not only forgive them but also to love them.
“I am your brother Joseph whom you once sold into Egypt. But now do not be distressed, and do not reproach yourself for having sold me here…. God sent me on ahead of you to ensure for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives in an extraordinary deliverance. So, it was not really you, but God, who had me come here.” (Gen 45:4-7)
In the day to day of our lives, it is often difficult to see God in our troubled times. Joseph, sold as a slave, worked hard for most of his life. Innocently, he spent time in the pharaoh’s dungeon. He didn’t have a life of ease or abundance until the pharaoh realized his gift at reading dreams.
Through all of that misery, and pain he was able to see the path of God leading him. This is a big lesson for us all. God brings good out of even the darkest moments in our lives.
Let us look this day, not at the pain we have but the hope that is ours in Christ Jesus.
Kate Mims is the Retreat Center Director at Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center in Houston, Texas.