Genesis 45:16-24 – Sent Away

Pharaoh shows great kindness to Joseph’s family for Joseph’s sake, even though it is a time of famine and extra people to care for are a burden. Pharaoh tells Joseph to send for his father and promises to provide whatever they need to relocate to Egypt and the best of the land once they get there. What they have in Canaan, Pharaoh considers as nothing in comparison to what is waiting for them in Egypt. Those who believe and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ should see the best things of this world as nothing in comparison to what is waiting for them in heaven.

Joseph provides everything his brothers need to go back to Canaan and then return to Egypt. He gives his brothers clothing and money, and he sends presents along to his father. Finally, he gives his brothers a warning not to quarrel along the way. He knows his brothers too well and realises that as they think back over what they have done to him, they might start arguing with each other and accusing each other. Joseph has forgiven them, and he wants them to be at peace with each other, just as our Lord forgives us and tells His Church to love one another. Why? We are brothers, we all have one Father. We are Jesus’ brothers and sisters, and we shame Him when we fall out with each other. We are guilty, very guilty, and instead of fighting with each other, we have good reason to be angry with ourselves. We have been forgiven by God whom we have offended, so we should be ready to forgive others. Finally, we shouldn’t give unbelievers any excuse to find fault with Christ’s Church.