Meant for GoodSample

In Light of God’s Forgiveness

Read: Genesis 45:15-28, Matthew 18:21-22

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At the end of Genesis 45, Joseph embraces and weeps with his brothers, fully reconciling with them. Pharaoh hears of Joseph’s family and invites them to settle in Egypt. He offers them the best provisions for the journey. Joseph sends his brothers back to Canaan with gifts and supplies, and when they tell Jacob that Joseph is alive and ruling in Egypt, Jacob is stunned but overjoyed. He decides to go see his son before he dies.

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After years of separation, heartache, and regret, Joseph’s brothers obey his instructions by returning home to Jacob and sharing the astonishing news that Joseph is alive. Jacob, however, reacts with disbelief. Having endured the devastating loss of Joseph, the fear of losing Benjamin, and the captivity of Simeon, Jacob becomes so accustomed to sorrow that the possibility of good news seems unimaginable. His heart is hardened by pain and loss, so it is not until he sees the gifts sent from Egypt that he begins to believe Joseph is truly alive. This moment in Genesis 45 is similar to the experience of Thomas in John 20:24-29. Just as Thomas doubts Jesus’ resurrection until he sees and touches the wounds in Jesus’ hands and side, Jacob needs physical evidence to accept the truth of his family’s restoration.

The proof given to Jacob is a true sign of forgiveness. Joseph’s story demonstrates the power of forgiveness and the profound impact it can have on relationships. Despite having every reason to hold on to anger and resentment, Joseph chooses to forgive his brothers for the betrayal that cost him years of suffering. His ability to extend grace in this situation teaches us that forgiveness is not just about releasing others from their wrongs; it is about freeing ourselves from the bondage of bitterness. Matthew 18:21-22 shows us that forgiveness is not a one-time event, but a continual practice. Jesus teaches that we must forgive “seventy-seven times,” emphasizing that there is no limit to how often we should extend grace. Refusing to forgive can cloud our hearts, making it difficult to fully experience God’s mercy and grace. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us to “be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” When we hold on to unforgiveness, we lose sight of the fullness of Christ’s work on the cross, which was a supreme act of forgiveness. Unforgiveness prohibits us from seeing the scope of God’s mercy in our own lives and prevents us from understanding the depth of His love.

Apply
Perhaps you, like Joseph, were deeply wronged by someone close to you. Or maybe you struggle to forgive a particular person who hurt you. Who do you need to forgive today? What steps can you take toward reconciliation? Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:23-24 that before we come to God in worship, we must seek peace with others. Is there someone you need to make peace with today? Take time today to reflect on these passages as you ask God for the strength to forgive. By taking the first steps toward healing, you open yourself to the grace of God, allowing Him to restore your relationships and reveal His mercy in your life. Forgiveness is never easy, but as we follow Christ’s example, we begin to experience the depth of God’s love in a new and transformative way.