Genesis 46:1-34
We have been occupied with Joseph’s love for his brothers and the greatness of his forgiveness, more than all his glory and more than all his riches. For those amongst us who live in a family with brothers and sisters, here is the opportunity of learning a moving lesson of love and mutual support. But the love of Joseph for his father Jacob, his respect, his kindness, his haste to see him, his eagerness to put himself out for him, are also an example for us. Is this the way we love and respect our parents?
Israel’s family starts out by passing through Beersheba where the well of the oath was! The promises are there confirmed to Jacob by a faithful God. "Fear not to go down into Egypt," He says to him (v. 3: compare Isaiah 41:14). What a change there is in Jacob, formerly driven by his own desires and now fearing to take one step without God. God also encourages him by promising to go down with him. Can the Lord always accompany us wherever we go?
Then there is the moving meeting with his beloved son, who has carefully prepared everything for the comfort of his family. "I go to prepare a place for you," the Lord Jesus has promised, "that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:2-3).