As this section of Genesis opens, Jacob’s sons prepare to return to Egypt for food because of the famine. Against Jacob’s wishes, Benjamin accompanies them, as had been commanded (43:3–5). Joseph receives them with wondrous hospitality and then sends them on their way, having put a plan in place to frame Benjamin for theft. Knowing how precious Benjamin is to Jacob, Judah pleads for his youngest brother. Judah had been the most vocal ringleader in the conspiracy against Joseph (37:26ff) and the pride and petty jealousy of the brothers had caused much damage to their family. Having witnessed Jacob’s pain at Joseph’s loss (37:34–35), as well as the experience of his own misadventures (38), Judah’s heart seems to have changed. Whereas he once betrayed a brother, he now pledges his loyalty to safeguard Benjamin (43:8–9). Although Judah cannot change what happened with Joseph, he can be better this time. When Joseph’s ‘trap’ was sprung, Judah proved to be as good as his word (44:18–34).
Have you learned some hard lessons in life? Have they served to change your heart, preparing you to be better the next time? Perhaps we can go back and mend old hurts, perhaps not, but if not, is there a way to ‘pay it forward’? Can we be better?
“The goal of discipline is Christian maturity, and ultimately participation in the holiness of God” — Geoffrey Bromiley.
Rev. Chad C. Fernald, Trinity, Fla.
