“Then he threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin embraced him, weeping. And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them. Afterward his brothers talked with him.”
- Genesis 45:14-15
Every family has its challenges, and some events may seem impossible to get past. In the story of Joseph in Genesis, he was a beloved son of Jacob and was sold by his jealous brothers. Some of his brothers originally wanted to kill him, all because he is beloved and clearly favoured by their father, and possibly by God through the foretelling of Joseph's dreams.
When Joseph eventually met his brothers again, he was successful and in a position where he could help and save his family by providing food during a famine. It is difficult to imagine how Joseph could possibly forgive his brothers after what they did to him, yet Joseph showed immense grace and faith in God, believing that all that had happened were part of God's plan. He embraced his brothers, and saved his family. By not holding onto his grudge, he was able to reestablish his relationship with his father and his siblings, and they were able to live the remainder of their days together in unity.
Family relationships can be complicated. Whether it be a family you are born into, or you have found family in friends or the community you belong to, cherish the relationships. Find ways to forgive and to mend conflicts, for life is short. If it is difficult to do so, pray and ask God for guidance and for his help to bring healing into your relationships. Use Joseph's story as an inspiration to help you let go and move forward, in love and in support with one another.
Reflection: Relationships take work. How can you invite God's presence into your family to help you flourish together in God's love?
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Forgiveness in the family is the focus of this week's blog as we look at Joseph's narrative in Genesis. Enjoy devotionals and our praise and worship channels on Christian Calm Radio.