Sunday, December 4th, 2011
Written by: Matthew Swope
Readings: Genesis 37, 39:1 - 50:21
The story of Joseph and his brothers is a familiar yet complicated one. No family is perfect, and at the heart of this story are twisted circumstances that make many modern families look far from dysfunctional. The themes of favoritism, jealousy, and betrayal are all issues that we struggle with in our own lives and likely in our own families. Joseph’s journey and the evolution of his family reveal that, through it all, God is present and at work in our lives and our relationships.The Lord had a purpose for Joseph and his gifts, even amidst the trials of family discord and imprisonment. By trusting in the Lord, Joseph rises above his circumstances and therefore can compassionately say to his brothers, “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” (Genesis 45:5). This is a profound statement of Joseph’s principles of faith, forgiveness, and trust in the Lord.As Joseph went forth to prepare Egypt for the famine, we must also make preparations during this time of Advent. In preparing for the birth of Jesus, let us forgive and plant anew, let us grow our faith like the grain of fields, and let us reap the joys of sharing our “stockpiles” with others.
Prayer: Dear God, guide us in our own relationships so that we might know your true forgiveness and with open hearts prepare for the birth or our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Family Moments:
Second Sunday: Joseph, God's Providence, Sack of Grain, Genesis 50:21
Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him and tried to hurt him (Gen 37). But God used those ugly circumstances to put Joseph in a position of power – Joseph was able to feed his family and keep all of Egypt fed! Look around you and find “ugly” things that God can make beautiful (think caterpillar into butterfly, acorn to oak tree, tadpole to frog, etc). Color the ornament and add it to your Jesse Tree.
Prayer: Dear God, guide us in our own relationships so that we might know your true forgiveness and with open hearts prepare for the birth or our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Family Moments:
Second Sunday: Joseph, God's Providence, Sack of Grain, Genesis 50:21
Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him and tried to hurt him (Gen 37). But God used those ugly circumstances to put Joseph in a position of power – Joseph was able to feed his family and keep all of Egypt fed! Look around you and find “ugly” things that God can make beautiful (think caterpillar into butterfly, acorn to oak tree, tadpole to frog, etc). Color the ornament and add it to your Jesse Tree.
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