Joseph of Egypt. This is a story of reconciliation and forgiveness, among many other things. It’s hard for me to even describe this story because of the complexity of the emotions involved. I can’t imagine going through any of the things that happened to him. I can’t imagine being sold and betrayed by my brothers, I can’t imagine going to prison after being falsely accused. I can’t imagine succeeding at everything I became a part of. I can’t imagine being in a place of great power and being able to forgive my brothers.

The story is so unusual and unfathomable in our day and time. So why does it hit home so much? Why is this story so relatable?

There is something about betrayal and pain that we can all relate to. There is something to the complexity of families that we can relate to. Even the complex mix of emotions that we feel at times.

Each time I read how Joseph wept, I wondered what he was feeling. He was overcome at times and sent people away, or hid himself as he wept. Notice that it took significant time for him to sit in his emotions and wrestle with them. He did not immediately forgive his brothers. I imagine him wresting until he came to a point of giving it all up to God.

In the end, Joseph acknowledges that it was God’s will that he was sold into Egypt. It was all part of a much greater plan. When Joseph realized it was God’s will, he was able to forgive his brothers.

We can all strive to have a godlike perspective on life rather than holding to our own pride. I know I need work on this.