Joseph and His Brothers

“Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Come closer to me.’ When they came closer, he said, ‘I am Joseph, your brother, whom you sold into Egypt! But now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves for selling me here, because God sent me ahead of you to preserve life.’” (Genesis 45:4–5)

Joseph was sold by his brothers. He had every reason to be angry with them, yet he forgave them. Looking back on his life, he came to see the truth that we also confess in the teaching of the Heidelberg Catechism: “Whatever evil he sends upon me in this vale of tears, he turns to my good, for he is able to do it, being almighty God, and willing to do it, being a faithful Father.” (Heidelberg Catechism, Q&A 26)

Despite all the evil and injustice that happened to Joseph, God was at work for his good and for the preservation of the lives of many people. Therefore, Joseph’s heart could be filled not with hatred, but with gratitude and forgiveness. His brothers could not have known this. Perhaps they did not even hope that their brother would ever forgive them. Truly, God’s ways are beyond our understanding. And Joseph forgave.

There is a story about forgiveness that is often told as a story originating in Africa. According to the story, when someone acts unjustly or thoughtlessly within a South African tribe, that person is brought to the center of the village, but no one prevents them from leaving. The villagers stop their work and gather around the accused person. Then, one by one, regardless of age, they begin to recount that person’s good qualities and good deeds. They recall in detail everything they can remember about the person. All of their good qualities, good deeds, strengths, and acts of kindness are mentioned. Every member of the circle takes this task very seriously. The stories of the person’s life are told with the greatest possible honesty and love. No one is allowed to exaggerate events or invent stories. No one may speak frivolously or mockingly. According to the story, the ceremony continues until every person in the village has said why they consider the individual a valuable and respected member of the community. Finally, the members of the tribe open the circle and joyfully welcome the person back into the community.

If we look at others with love, it becomes easier for us to forgive one another. Perhaps we are thinking now of those who have done something wrong against us. Do we have enough love and willingness to forgive them by the grace of God? Amen.

PRAYER: Good Father, I know that I have hurt You many times and in many ways. I am grateful that, by Your grace, You forgive our sins. Grant that we, too, may forgive from the heart those who have sinned against us! Amen.

Sebestyén Elek Előd