Genesis 37:3-4,12-13,17-28
Matthew 21:33-43,45-46
The story of Joseph is unquestionable quite a thrilling one because we can see some similarities between Him and the Messiah (Suffering servant). Just as Joseph was beloved by Jacob -his Father Gen 37:3. So also in Matthew 3:17, Jesus is the beloved of God the Father. They were stripped of their robes. Gen 37:23 — John 19:23-24.
They were both taken to Egypt Gen. 37:28 —Matt2:14-15
Here we see the display of envy and wickedness from the brothers, which is still happening in our world today. Slave brothers are still around us dressed in modern fashion. Families are shattered today because of the ‘Cains’ we have and the nations and places where there is war are brothers and neighbour who were once friends.
It was Matthew Henry that says that, Where envy reigns, pity is banished, and humanity itself is forgotten.” And Proverbs 27:4 tells us, Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy? In our stories we often see brothers driven by envy and jealousy just to plot the death of their own brother, even if he has to desperately pleaded for his life! Genesis41. 21.
The Jewish leaders of the time of Jesus grew envious of Jesus because he worked miracles in the midst of the people and He claimed to be the Son of God. We too will be rejected or persecuted but we must aim at the goal and get it done. Nothing must interfere. Nothing must come between our love for God and his commands.
May God’s grace cover you and his mercy keep you company on the journey of life. Whether cheaply or costly, you, your family won’t in any form be sold for whatever devious reasons.
Fr Joseph Osho