Redemption and Reunions

Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Now therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones.” And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. Genesis 50:19-21 (New King James Version)

The countless offenses Joseph forgave became the distinct backdrop to an exquisite portrait of grace and mercy. Joseph was not in denial. He plainly stated the evil intent of his brothers along with the sovereign working of God. After years of separation from family and imprisonment, Joseph came to see that God had never taken His eye or His hand off Him. What was meant to destroy him actually became the passage way to his life’s calling and vocation. By the time he was reunited with his brothers he was ready to provide for them, comfort them, and speak kindly to them.

I believe much of this was contingent on the fact that Joseph had fully embraced the truth that God meant the things in his life for good. It was not just a lofty thought to him. While his life entailed much pain, sorrow, and tears, he knew where the path ultimately led…..the saving of many lives including his and his family’s. He knew that only God could bring about such a story of redemption. That only God could bring beauty from his ashes. His incredible reunion with his brothers hinged on his personal connection with God and the acceptance of God’s plan for his life.

Within that context hope is born in me this morning. I am daring to believe that God could do such a work in me as He did in Joseph. He can redeem ANY story in my life that I allow Him to redeem. He can bring about reunions with individuals that I consider impossible. He can transform my internal world into a thing of beauty.

Joseph’s story far exceeds anything I have ever faced and that in turn helps me to see the possibilities of God’s intervention on my behalf. That is one of the reasons there were so many stories recorded in Scripture. It is so we can know that our stories too can be redeemed by the same loving, personal, devoted, and capable God.

Father, it is with joy and confidence that I offer to You my own story. Do Your work in me. Thank you for what I will see come of this. Amen.