“The Reunion”

Joseph and Jacob reunite in Goshen, and it’s tender: “Joseph threw his arms around his father and wept for a long time.” This moment always feels sacred love that survived distance, years, grief, and fear now finds expression in tears. Joseph then coaches his family on how to speak with Pharaoh so they can settle safely in Goshen.  Joseph wanted Pharaoh to know that his family would not cause any trouble to the Egyptians. They would take care of themselves.

It reads in Genesis 46:28-34 Easy:  Then Jacob sent Judah to go to Joseph before he got there himself. He learned how to get to Goshen and they arrived there. Joseph prepared his chariot, and he went to Goshen to meet Jacob, his father. When they met, Joseph hugged his father, and he wept for a long time. Jacob said to Joseph, ‘Now I am ready to die. I have seen for myself that you are still alive.’ Then Joseph spoke to his brothers and to his father’s people. He said, ‘I will go and say to Pharaoh, “My brothers and all my father’s people have arrived here from Canaan. The men are shepherds. They take care of their animals. They have brought with them their sheep, goats and cows, and everything that they have.” Pharaoh will call you to meet him. He will ask you, “What is your job?” Then you should answer, “We have always taken care of cows and sheep since we were young men. Our ancestors have always done this work.” Egyptians do not want to live near people who take care of sheep. So Pharaoh will let you stay in the region called Goshen.’

Father God. I thank You and praise You that You are owner of the long road and the tear-filled embrace, You gather what time scatters. You plant reunion in the soil of sorrow and make it bloom with mercy. I lift to You the ache of waiting, the years that feel lost, the names I’ve whispered in longing. Like Jacob, I’ve walked heavily with memory, but now I see Your kindness cresting the horizon. Thank You and Praise You for love that survives distance, for joy too deep for words, for arms that weep when they finally let go. Teach me to receive reunion when it comes, not with control, but with awe. Let me prepare a place, like Joseph did, a resting field for those I love, where grace has room to grow and Your presence welcomes us home again. Love You, thank You, praise You and give You all the honor and glory in Jesus Precious Name Amen and Amen.