Genesis 43:26-34 – A Family Feast
As Joseph’s brothers bow low before him, referring to their father, Jacob, as being Joseph’s servants, Joseph’s dreams of his youth are being fulfiled right before his eyes. Joseph graciously asks after his own father and takes notice of Benjamin, praying that God will deal graciously with him. Joseph understands that his help and love is worth nothing, if Benjamin doesn’t have the help and love of the Lord God.
Joseph is so moved by seeing his younger brother, all grown up and standing before him, that he has to leave the room, so he can weep privately and not give himself away yet. He would have been especially close to Benjamin, as they are full brothers, both sons of Rachel. Now, after many years and much concern, he sees that God has taken care of his brother and his whole family.
Joseph then treats his brothers with very great hospitality, which might have confused them, especially as they are seated in order of oldest to youngest. They wonder how this Egyptian ruler knows their order of birth. Joseph is very generous in sharing a feast with them. These are times of famine, and perhaps this is the best meal Joseph’s brothers have had in quite some time. Joseph sits by himself, not prepared to admit that he is a Hebrew and not wanting to be classed as an Egyptian. But Joseph is very clear that Benjamin is special in his eyes, giving him five times as much as his brothers.
Questions
- How are Joseph’s dreams fulfiled?
- What does Joseph pray for Benjamin?
- Why does Joseph give special treatment to Benjamin?
- Why didn’t they all eat at one big table?
Prayer Points
- Pray that our friends and family would have the blessing of being in a good relationship with the Lord.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters