As we move towards the end of the book of Genesis, we begin to see the endings of many stories, and what a contrast!

Judah had been a violent and murderous man. Now he personally commits himself to guarantee Benjamin’s safety.

The brothers had reacted angrily to Joseph’s dreams. Now, they bow before him, just as the dreams had predicted.

Years before, the brothers had sat down to enjoy their food while Joseph lay in a pit, unsure of his fate. Now they sit down to a lavish feast provided by Joseph himself.

Joseph had experienced jealousy and hatred from his brothers when his father had favoured him. Now, his brothers don’t seem to mind that Benjamin receives five times more food than they do.

In different ways, God has achieved a transformation in the heart of every person involved in this story. Perhaps Joseph’s story is the most dramatic, but his brother Judah has also undergone a massive change. The picture we have of Joseph’s brothers here is one of an honourable, loving family, each looking out for the other, and for their father. It couldn’t be more different than the family that sold one of their own into slavery.

As you look back over your life, can you see the changes that God has made in you? As we choose to walk God’s path, we can expect to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2), and to be changed into his image (2 Corinthians 3:18). Let us give thanks to God for the transformation he has already made in our lives and press into him for more.

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NEWBOLD COMMUNITY CHURCH