Contemplative Bible Reading

Genesis 42:7 (New Living Translation)

Joseph recognized his brothers instantly, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them. “Where are you from?” he demanded.

This is part of the (hi)story of Joseph, his brothers, and the eventual 430 years of life in Egypt for the family of Jacob.

Joseph is where he is because his brothers beat him and sold him. They lied to their father about what happened. They were liars.

In this verse, Joseph recognizes his brothers, but “pretends,” a.k.a, lies about it.

He lies to the liars.

Yes, but this was justified and part of the story and, and, and, well, you know. No. He lies to the liars. He could have been honest and the (hi)story would have concluded the same. Why lie? Well, I wasn’t there to ask Joseph, so I can only speculate, and my speculations are worth…oh…nothing.

Such is the human condition. We aren’t worthy of the grace of God. We do wrong because it feels right. We sometimes do right from the wrong motive. How foolish are we? Very foolish at times. Thank you God for your undeserved gifts. Help me in my unbelief.