1.18.08

Genesis 43-45; Romans 15:1-13

I've always loved the story of Joseph in the Bible. Not sure what it is that draws my attention - the complexity of characters, the suffering and perseverance of Joseph, the good that God brought out of it all - but I love the story. I've seen the Dreamworks animated musical, older movies, the Broadway musical version (on video and small-scale live at my high school) and the Veggietales version. I even have the (Broadway) soundtrack! I can't seem to get enough.

I would love to be a fly (carob beetle?) on the wall there when Joseph was interacting with his brothers in Egypt. Especially the second time. When he saw Benjamin for the first time in years. When Judah showed how he'd changed by taking responsibility for his actions and for his younger brother. When Joseph finally revealed himself (and they didn't get it at first). Can you imagine?

Reconciliation. Restoration. Those are the words. That's why I love the story of Joseph. And when Jacob and Esau met up again. And when the kids were renamed in Hosea. And when the temple was rebuilt and the glory returned in Ezekiel. And when the good kings rediscovered God's Words and led the country in repentance and revival. And when Jesus came, died and rose again - taking our place - so that we could be restored, reconciled to God.

Reconciliation. Restoration. It's the story of the Bible. And it's why I love the story of Joseph.