March 15 -- "Joseph's Example of Compassion and Grace"

 Today's Reading:  Genesis 43

"Joseph's Example of Compassion and Grace"

Today’s verse highlights Joseph's compassion and concern for his brother Benjamin. Despite the fact that his brothers had wronged him many years earlier, Joseph is still willing to extend grace and mercy towards them. He recognizes that his brother Benjamin is in a difficult situation, and he wants to ensure that he is not overcome by his emotions.

Joseph likely felt a strong sense of nostalgia and emotion upon seeing his brothers again, after being separated from them for so many years. The reunion with his brothers may have also brought up memories of his past and the pain he experienced from being sold into slavery by his own brothers. All of this welled up inside him, causing him to get alone and weep.

This verse can serve as a reminder for us to extend compassion and grace to others, even when they have wronged us. This moment is a testament to Joseph's character and his willingness to forgive and show compassion to those who had wronged him. It serves as a reminder for us to follow Joseph's example and extend forgiveness and compassion to those around us.

Jesus often emphasized the importance of forgiving others as a reflection of the forgiveness that we have received from God, no matter how many times or how severely others have hurt us. Matthew 18:21-22 - "Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."

Joseph exemplified this type of forgiving spirit. We would all do well to foster this same spirit in our own lives.