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KARLA KINCANNON | Read Genesis 45:1-15
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Sign Up TodayFortunately for Joseph’s brothers, Joseph has experienced a change of heart as the familial bonds of love rekindle within him. He begins to heal from the trauma of having been separated from his family in his youth. His heart becomes tender as he weeps, releasing years of pain. Not desiring...
Reconciling God, as we move closer to you, we are drawn into deeper relationships with one another. Heal the brokenness of our lives and create in us a forgiving heart. Grant us the courage to be willing to move toward forgiveness and reconciliation in the example of your son, Christ Jesus. Amen.
Genesis 45 portrays Joseph in a moment of triumph. The trials of the past are over, and his trembling brothers are now in his power. Joseph acknowledges God’s hand in the events of his life and is reconciled to those who attempted to do him harm. Psalm 133 is a brief but exuberant song to the spirit of unity and fellowship that can exist among the members of the family of God. Paul delivers a resounding “no” to the idea that God has rejected Israel. God’s election is irrevocable. The story of Jesus and the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15 illustrates the wide umbrella of God’s mercy. The woman’s faith and persistence serve in a curious way to minister to Jesus. As she becomes a means of God’s grace to Jesus, he extends God’s mercy to her.
• Read Genesis 45:1-15. What relationship in your life needs reconciliation? How will you help bring it about?
• Read Psalm 133. How healthy is your church family? Is there need for greater unity among the members?
• Read Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32. What wounds in your life have brought you a greater understanding of God’s mercy?
• Read Matthew 15:10-28. The writer says, “The work of Christians is to love others, not to change them.” Is this difficult for you?
Respond by posting a prayer.
Throughout my Walk I experienced the presence of the Risen One in the devotional spaces as well as in times of teaching, meditation, and prayer. The communion with brothers, experienced in the daily sharing at the table and in the Word, generated deep bonds of brotherhood.”
