from Genesis 46-50

Having been assured by the Lord, Jacob arose, with his descendants, to make the journey with their property and livestock to Egypt, God’s ordained place. And to Goshen, the final destination, Joseph headed in his chariot for their reunion, where he wept on his father’s neck upon seeing his face.

He wept there a long time; and Jacob spoke of the peace he would have now in death, due to seeing that his beloved Joseph was, wonderfully, still alive. In acknowledgement of God’s love, Joseph likely thought of all he could now offer, which was worth all the adversities with which he’d had to strive.

So Joseph took five of his brothers to appear before Pharaoh, where they stated their desire to sojourn as shepherds in Goshen, a choice part of Pharaoh’s land. Pharaoh’s answer, to Joseph, was that Egypt was at their disposal–and that if some of them were capable, then put his own livestock under their command.

Joseph presented also his father to Pharaoh, who inquired as to his age, which Jacob shared; and he blessed this Pharaoh who had exalted his son. Then Joseph settled his father and brothers and gave them a possession in the land, and provided them food–all of which his obedience to God had won.

“I never expected to see your face; and behold, God has let me see your children as well,” Jacob said to Joseph; and he blessed his children in this true Bible story. After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers needed reassurance of his forgiveness, which he freely gave, comforting them kindly–and it was to God that Joseph gave all of the glory!

“But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.” Genesis 50:20 KJV

P. A. Oltrogge