Genesis 46:28-34 – Reunited

Jacob wisely sends Judah ahead to get directions and to inform Joseph and the other rulers of Egypt that they are entering their land. This is a sign of respect to the Egyptian government, under the protection of which, they have come.

Joseph shows great respect for his father, immediately going to meet him. Children are commanded to show respect to their parents in all circumstances. Joseph loves his father. His respect is not an outward sign, but as the tears show, it comes from a heart that is full with the sadness of a long and difficult separation and the joy of being back with his father.

Jacob is so happy with seeing Joseph again, that he expects nothing more from life, and he is quite content for death to come. But death does not come when we say so. Our times are in God’s hand, and not in our own.

Joseph takes care to let Pharaoh know that his family has come to settle in Egypt. He does not want to abuse his power by imposing upon the Egyptians without permission. Despite what his brothers have done to him in the past, Joseph is anxious to settle them into a good situation. This is returning good for evil. Joseph wants his family to live separate as much as they can from the Egyptians and their ungodly influence. The land of Goshen is nearest to Canaan and good pasture land, so it seems to be the ideal place. Joseph could have used his power to put his brothers into different jobs, but he encourages them to continue in the work that they know and understand and not to be ashamed to tell Pharaoh what they do.