SCRIPTURE: Genesis 44:1-34
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
Judah demonstrates the kind of love that is willing to sacrifice oneself for the sake of another. This is a sign that his cruel heart (that first betrayed Joseph) has been changed. Unknown to him, he is acting the part of the future messiah who will also offer Himself for the sake of His brothers, to restore them to their Father. It is a distant ‘echo’ of a future event that will ultimately decide the destiny of all God’s children. Keeping in mind that the Author of this story, the Word of God, at work behind the scenes here, is foreshadowing His own future role.
This is a helpful way to read the Old Testament stories, to remember that their Author is none other than the Word of God Who will one day become flesh. He is directing the whole story to point to Himself, and what He will do.
PRAYER:
Lord, You have been patiently writing the Story of the universe, and of my life. Not only is the whole story in Your hand, so is my story. Help me to offer my life as a living testimony to You, and to trust Your Story when my story seems all mixed up. Amen.
Joseph finds out that his brothers had changed. The affection toward Benjamin was demonstrated that they did not leave him or forsake him as they had done with Joseph. They tore their clothes as a symbol of showing their grief. Then Judah steps forward. The man who convinced his brothers to sell Joseph. The man who joined his brothers about lying about Joseph’s fate. The changed man steps forward to plead their case. He had given the guarantee for Benjamin’s safety. That responsibility Judah carried out with great determination and courage, without regard for himself. What a change.
Judah ‘threw’ himself at the mercy of Joseph. Joseph was their deliverer. Christ Jesus needs to be my Deliverer, my Guarantee of life. As Joseph’s brothers showed repentance of their sins, so I too need to ask forgiveness of my sins. He is my All in All. He will forgive and remember my past deeds no more. What a Redeemer! What a Saviour!
You are my strength when I am weak,
You are the treasure that I seek,
You are my all in all.
Seeking You as a precious jewel,
Lord to give up I’d be a fool,
You are my all in all.
Jesus, Lamb of God — worthy is Your name.
Jesus, Lamb of God — worthy is Your name.
Taking my sin, my cross, my shame,
Rising again, I bless Your name,
You are my all in all.
When I fall down, You pick me up,
When I am dry You fill my cup,
You are my all in all. You Lord.