Uncommen: Blind SpotsSample

Joseph’s Brothers

Genesis 42:8, And Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him.

It’s estimated that Joseph was about 17 years old when he was sold into slavery by his brothers. By the time we get to our scripture verse (Genesis 42:8) about twenty years have passed. So when we read that Joseph’s brothers didn’t recognize him, I’m like . . . what? How could you not recognize your brother?

There are two options for us to consider. One, they cared so little for their youngest brother, they didn’t spend time with him. Or they were so scared of being in trouble they couldn’t see what was right in front of them. Let’s explore both options.

Respect

As a society, we don’t spend too much time thinking about things we don’t respect. How much time do you spend thinking about that homeless person you drive past 5 days a week? Or that family member that you don’t like. I guess if 20 years had passed, and they had been hard years, you and I may not recognize them right off the bat.

Fear

If you have ever been scared enough, you may not have been aware of everything around you. Things that are right in front of you may not be obvious (the saving knowledge of the Gospel). In our story, the brothers were in trouble, and they were afraid of several things.

Do we wonder how Joseph felt? Here is your brother (family) who sold you into slavery 20 years ago and now didn’t even recognize you? Wow! Joseph is a better man than me because I would have been giving them “the business” right from the jump.

Blind Spots

Oh, we all have them in our lives and swear up and down that we don’t. We may even try to explain them away, but as you can see, blind spots can be harmful. Pray that God opens your eyes to see or puts someone in your life to help you see things.

The third option is to pray that God puts a Joseph in your life who you will forgive.

Questions:

Do you find you let respect or fear create blind spots in your life?

How would you have handled the situation if you were in Joseph’s shoes?

Challenge:

I challenge us all to keep our eyes focused on what God has in front of us as He has it there for a reason. If you are having a hard time with that, pray that the Holy Spirit helps you to focus.