Weekly Readings: Genesis 41:1-44:17; 1 Kings 3:15-4:1; Romans 10:1-13.
What Can Christians Learn From Joseph's Butler?
This week's Scripture passages cover the dramatic story of Joseph's time in Egypt, his interpretation of Pharoah's dreams and consequent rise to power over the whole nation, as well as the eventual reunion with his brothers who had previously sold him into slavery. As the chapters unfold, the reader becomes strongly aware of God's detailed orchestration of Joseph's life, as well as the deep emotions felt by Joseph as he is torn away from his family, forced into prison, then raised to the second-highest office in the land.
Years later, when his brothers come to Egypt to buy food but do not recognise Joseph in his new position of power, he sends them away with plentiful supplies and the request that they return bringing Benjamin. They later discover that their food money has also been mysteriously returned to their sacks. Fearing punishment for theft, when the brothers return with Benjamin they also bring rich gifts in the hope of sparing themselves Joseph's wrath.
Treasure in the Sacks
As they draw near to Joseph's house, a relatively unknown Bible character makes a brief appearance: Joseph's steward. Greeting them at the door, when they express their sense of trepidation he speaks comfort and reassurance to them, telling them that there is no need to fear: "'It's all right,' he said. 'Don't be afraid. Your God, the God of your father, has given you treasure in your sacks; I received your silver.'"
Kindly saying that he had received their original food money and that God must have replaced it miraculously, the steward demonstrates the reality of grace – that that which they neither earned nor deserved had been given freely to them as a blessing. He then grounds his words in caring actions, providing them with water for washing their feet and fodder for their donkeys, and bringing their brother Simeon (kept in Egypt as collateral for Benjamin) out to them.
Ushering People Towards God
This world is full of people for who Christianity and God signify dread of punishment – people who dare not darken the doors of a church (have even learned to hate God) for fear of being judged and told they are not good enough. Of course the good news of the gospel is that God himself, in the person of his Son Jesus Christ, took on himself the judgment for sin that was rightfully ours so this burden could be lifted from our backs, and so we could be transformed with the treasure of the Holy Spirit (see also 2 Cor 4:7).
However, if people are to ever draw close enough to God to discover this abundant love, mercy and grace, they will need friendly faces and comforting voices to come alongside them, help them overcome their apprehensions and encourage them into his presence. They will need gentle, kind words of peace and assurance, backed up with actions that show genuine love and care.
Merciful Servants
Joseph's steward is not afforded many verses in Genesis – but he made a big difference to Joseph's brothers that day. We are all stewards of the good news, standing at the door of God's house to welcome people in. We can look disapprovingly upon those outside, or we can express warm welcome and words of peace. The choice is ours: will we seek to be servants who look so much like our Master that those around us taste his goodness and grace in our every word and deed?
Author: Frances Rabbitts